URGENT UPDATE: Authorities have confirmed that the body of 9-year-old Melodee Buzzard has been found in Wayne County, Utah, leading to the arrest of her mother, Ashlee Buzzard, on murder charges. This shocking development comes just two months after the pair went missing during a road trip across several states.
The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office announced the grim discovery on October 14, 2025, after a school administrator reported Melodee’s prolonged absence. Detectives had previously visited their home in Lompoc, California, but Ashlee refused to disclose her daughter’s whereabouts. Surveillance footage from a rental car company captured both Melodee and Ashlee on October 7, when they embarked on their fateful journey.
The investigation revealed that the mother and daughter traveled as far as Nebraska, making stops in Nevada and Arizona, and returning through Kansas. Tragically, Melodee was last seen on October 9, just days into their trip, where video footage showed her near the Colorado-Utah line.
Officials have connected Ashlee to the remains through DNA evidence. A search of her home, car, and a storage unit uncovered a used cartridge case, as well as ammunition matching that found in the rental vehicle. Authorities suspect that Ashlee attempted to evade law enforcement by altering her appearance and changing the rental car’s license plate during their travels.
On October 10, Ashlee returned to her Lompoc residence in the rental car, but alarmingly, Melodee was not with her. Investigators later arrested Ashlee on November 7 for unrelated charges, including preventing someone from leaving a location against their will.
This tragic case underscores the urgent need for vigilance in similar situations. As the investigation continues, officials are urging anyone with information to come forward. The community mourns for the loss of young Melodee, a life cut short too soon.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
