FBI Intensifies Search for Missing Lompoc Girl, Melodee Buzzard
The FBI has intensified its search for Melodee Buzzard, a 9-year-old girl who has been reported missing from Lompoc, California. The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office announced that the FBI joined the investigation on October 18, 2023.
Details of Melodee Buzzard’s Disappearance
Melodee is described as approximately 4 feet 6 inches tall and weighing around 60 pounds. She has brown hair and brown eyes. The last confirmed photograph of her dates back almost two years, and authorities believe her appearance may have changed significantly since then.
The investigation into Melodee’s disappearance began on October 14, 2023. A school administrator reported her absence from school, prompting an inquiry by the Sheriff’s Office. Melodee was last known to be with her mother, Ashlee Buzzard, on October 7, 2023.
Possible Locations and Vehicle
Officials suspect that Ashlee Buzzard may have transported Melodee beyond county lines, potentially as far as Nebraska. They are particularly interested in a white Chevrolet Malibu rental car bearing the license plate 9MNG101.
Community Responses and Concerns
- Signs displaying Melodee’s image have been placed throughout the 500 block of Mars Avenue in Lompoc.
- A local resident and self-identified aunt, Lizabeth Meza, expressed concerns on Instagram about Ashlee’s mental health, stating she has not seen Melodee in over four years.
How to Help
The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI are urging anyone with information about Melodee’s whereabouts to come forward. They have provided several contact options for tips:
- Detectives Line: (805) 681-4150
- Anonymous Tip Line: (805) 681-4171
- Online Tipline: SBSheriff.org
- FBI Toll-Free Tipline: 1-(800) 225-5324
- FBI Online Tipline: tips.fbi.gov
Authorities remain hopeful that Melodee may be in the company of someone who is unaware of her situation. Community efforts continue to support the search for her safe return.
