UPDATE: The search for missing 9-year-old Melodee Buzzard takes a dramatic turn as her mother, Ashlee Buzzard, is arrested for unrelated charges of false imprisonment. This shocking development comes just weeks after Melodee vanished during a mysterious 1,000-mile road trip across multiple states. Authorities are racing against time to piece together the timeline of events leading to her disappearance.
DEVELOPING: Just three days after leaving their home in California, Ashlee returned without her daughter, prompting investigators to launch a full-scale search. The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office revealed that Ashlee, 40, was arrested on October 14, 2023, not for Melodee’s disappearance, but for allegedly preventing another person from leaving a location against their will. The sheriff’s office has confirmed that this arrest is unrelated to Melodee’s case; however, details surrounding the incident remain undisclosed.
The investigation into Melodee’s whereabouts began when a concerned school official reported her “prolonged absence” from a remote study program on October 14. School officials in Lompoc contacted police after noticing Melodee, who had been enrolled in an independent study program since August, had not participated in classes.
Detectives have identified a frantic three-day window from October 7-10, during which they believe Ashlee drove Melodee over 1,000 miles, crossing at least six states, including Nebraska. Authorities are focusing on the crucial last sighting of Melodee on October 9 near the Colorado-Utah state line. They are urging businesses, gas stations, and residents along the route to check surveillance footage for any signs of the child.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that Ashlee took measures to disguise both herself and Melodee during their travels. Investigators report that surveillance footage captured Ashlee and Melodee in wigs at a rental car location, with plans to alter their appearances to avoid detection. Ashlee reportedly switched wigs throughout the trip, complicating the investigation as authorities struggle to confirm Melodee’s safety.
Melodee’s grandmother, Lilly Denes, expressed her shock upon seeing the disguises in the surveillance images. “If she’s listening, we love you. We’re here for you, and we just want you to be happy,” she urged, imploring Melodee to reach out.
The ongoing search has intensified following Ashlee’s arrest, with law enforcement pledging to remain focused on finding Melodee. “Sheriff’s detectives remain fully concentrated on locating Melodee and confirming her safety,” the sheriff’s office stated.
Anyone with information regarding Melodee’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office or provide an anonymous tip. The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated as the investigation continues to unfold.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as authorities seek to uncover the truth behind Melodee Buzzard’s disappearance.
