California authorities are actively searching for 9-year-old Melodee Buzzard, who is currently missing. Investigators say there is evidence suggesting Melodee was seen earlier this month, but her mother, Ashlee Buzzard, remains uncooperative with the ongoing investigation.
The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office reported on Monday that Melodee was likely with her mother as recently as October 7. Authorities believe Ashlee Buzzard and Melodee may have traveled outside Santa Barbara County, potentially as far as Nebraska. The sheriff’s office also indicated that Ashlee Buzzard was driving a rented white Chevrolet Malibu bearing the license plate 9MNG101.
Despite repeated attempts, Ashlee Buzzard has not provided any information regarding Melodee’s whereabouts. “The primary goal of this investigation is to verify the location and welfare of Melodee Buzzard and ensure that she is safe,” the sheriff’s office stated.
The search for Melodee was initially publicized last week, with authorities stating she had not been seen since October 2024. However, the department later confirmed sightings as recent as August 2025 and described her disappearance as “suspicious.”
According to the sheriff’s office, Melodee appears to have been homeschooled for at least the past few years.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging community members not to conduct independent searches. “While well-intentioned, these efforts could unintentionally interfere with investigative work already in progress,” the sheriff’s office warned.
Anyone with information about Melodee Buzzard’s whereabouts is encouraged to contact the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office immediately.
https://abcnews.go.com/US/missing-melodee-buzzard-spotted-october/story?id=126685359