Family wants justice years after Alabama mother was killed by ‘someone that she loved’

It has been more than three years since the tragic death of Melanie Amber Dorrill, an Alabama mother whose murder remains an open wound for her family and investigators. Despite the time that has passed, authorities and loved ones are refusing to stop the push for justice.

A Plea for Answers

Dorrill, a 37-year-old mother of two, was found shot multiple times in her home on County Road 117, located in northeast Coffee County near the Dale County line, on Oct. 4, 2022. During a joint press conference held Wednesday, the Coffee County District Attorney’s Office and the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office announced a $10,000 reward—the highest amount authorized by Gov. Kay Ivey’s office—to help generate new leads.

District Attorney James Tarbox stated that while they have identified persons of interest, investigators need additional evidence to solidify a successful prosecution. "Someone out there knows something," Tarbox urged. "The information that you have could break this case open and help bring justice to this grieving family."

Remembering Melanie

An Ozark native and G.W. Long High School graduate, Dorrill was known for her love of Alabama football, strawberry cheesecake, and her children. According to her obituary, she was a country girl at heart who enjoyed riding four-wheelers and getting muddy, yet she remained deeply devoted to her family and friends.

Dorrill’s mother, Joanie, has previously shared on social media that her daughter was discovered by a friend who had been at the home for over 36 hours. The family noted that the residence was torn down within weeks of the tragedy, adding to the layers of frustration in the ongoing investigation.

A Call to Action

Coffee County Sheriff Scott Byrd and Lt. Zack Worsham confirmed that while the investigation is nearing a resolution with only a few puzzle pieces missing, the community's help is critical. "It was a senseless homicide that shouldn’t have occurred," said Worsham, who has worked the case since the beginning.

For Angel Johnson, Dorrill’s sister, the reality is haunting. She believes her sister was killed by someone she trusted and loved. "There’s still somebody dangerous in the community that comfortably put bullets in someone else," Johnson said. "And if they haven’t done it again, they will."

The family hopes the $10,000 reward will encourage anyone with information to come forward. Anyone with details regarding this case is urged to contact investigators at 334-894-0204 or 334-894-5535.