Body of Missing 9-Year-Old California Girl Melodee Buzzard Found in Utah – Mother Arrested
After nearly two months, the body of 9-year-old Melodee Buzzard has been recovered out of state, according to law enforcement sources.
Melodee was last seen in early October 2025 while traveling with her mother, Ashlee Buzzard, 40, during a road trip. She was reported missing on October 14, 2025, after a school administrator noted her extended absence.
Investigators believe Melodee was killed sometime between October 7 and October 10, 2025 – before her disappearance was officially reported. The body was found in Utah in early December, in an area the pair had visited in October.
Ashlee Buzzard was taken into custody Tuesday morning from her home by Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s officials. Neighbours described the arrest as “quiet and quick,” occurring shortly before 7:45 a.m. local time. Authorities used a metal tool to gain entry after knocking.
The investigation revealed Ashlee and Melodee left California on October 7 in a rented white 2024 Chevrolet Malibu with California plates. Surveillance footage from a Lompoc rental location showed both wearing wigs – Ashlee changing to a darker one similar to Melodee’s to avoid recognition.
The vehicle was later returned with California plates, but during the trip, it was seen with mismatched New York plates believed to be false or switched to evade detection. Melodee was last confirmed alive on video surveillance near the Colorado-Utah border on October 9.
Ashlee had been uncooperative and provided no information about Melodee’s location or welfare. The FBI joined the investigation on October 18, with searches at the family home and surrounding areas.
The Santa Barbara Sheriff’s Office has scheduled a press conference for 2 p.m. PST to share major developments.
Source
Our deepest condolences to Melodee’s family and loved ones. 💔
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