Authorities have revealed new information in the case of missing nine-year-old Melodee Buzzard, nearly three weeks after she was last seen. The search for Melodee commenced on October 14 following concerns raised by a school official about her extended absence.
Law enforcement officers visited the residence of Melodee’s mother, Ashlee Buzzard, but the child was not present, and no credible explanation for her whereabouts was provided by her mother.
Newly released surveillance footage captured Melodee inside a car rental establishment in Santa Barbara on October 7, just seven days before she was reported missing in Lompoc, approximately 55 miles away. The images show Melodee wearing a grey hoodie with a wig that differs from her natural hair.
Investigators suspect that the wig was used to change Melodee’s appearance, noting that her mother, Ashlee Buzzard, is known to wear wigs. Ashlee rented a white Chevrolet Malibu and embarked on a three-day journey with Melodee from Lompoc to the Nebraska area.
The FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office is aiding in the investigation and believes that Melodee may have been in the company of her mother until at least October 7, potentially traveling as far as Nebraska. Ashlee has been uncooperative, and the rental car is no longer in her possession.
Due to her age and the duration of her absence, Melodee is classified as at-risk. Law enforcement officials are urging the public to provide any relevant information that could assist in locating her.
Santa Barbara County Sheriff Bill Brown emphasized the importance of community support in finding Melodee and ensuring her safe return. He expressed hope that Melodee may be with someone who is unaware of the circumstances surrounding her disappearance.
Described as approximately 4 feet, 6 inches tall, weighing 60 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes, Melodee’s whereabouts remain a top priority for law enforcement agencies involved in the search efforts.
