New Clues Surface in Mysterious Disappearance of Melodee Buzzard
A mother from Southern California, Ashlee Buzzard, embarked on a puzzling road trip this month, taking her 9-year-old daughter Melodee Buzzard halfway to Nebraska. After returning alone to her home in Vandenberg Village on October 10, Ashlee has been uncooperative with authorities regarding her daughter’s disappearance.
Timeline of the Disappearance of Melodee Buzzard
Authorities report that Ashlee departed from the Lompoc area with Melodee on October 7. Their three-day journey, spanning approximately 3,000 miles, included a significant stop in Kansas. Local reports indicate that the trip necessitated about 48 hours of driving, according to Google Maps.
Investigation and Search Efforts
The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating the case, collaborating with the FBI to locate Melodee. The Sheriff’s Office has obtained surveillance footage showing Melodee at a California car rental business on October 7. In the footage, she appears to wear a hooded sweatshirt and a wig that seems to change her appearance.
- Vehicle: White Chevrolet Malibu
- License Plate: 9MNG101
- Melodee’s Description: 4’6″ tall, 60 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes
Sheriff Bill Brown stated, “Our detectives are following every lead in this case. We continue to seek information from the public that could help us find Melodee.” Despite their efforts, initial leads failed to turn up any sightings of Melodee within the past year.
Background Information
Melodee was reported missing on October 14 after her prolonged absence from the Lompoc Unified School District’s independent study program was noted. Buzzard’s refusal to cooperate during the investigation has raised concerns among officials.
Melodee’s family is also troubled. Her father, Rubiell Meza, passed away in a motorcycle accident shortly after her birth in 2016. Family members indicate that Ashlee has restricted their access to Melodee, resulting in growing concern for the child’s wellbeing.
Community Response and Vigil
The community has mobilized in support of Melodee’s safe return. A vigil is planned outside her mother’s home, where family and friends are placing votive candles and posters asking, “Where is Melodee?”
Melodee’s aunt, Bridgett Truitt, shared heartfelt sentiments, stating, “She hasn’t let us see her for a few years. But we never stopped thinking about her or loving her or praying for her.” Other relatives express distress about Melodee’s condition and hope for her safe return.
Call for Information
Authorities urge anyone with information regarding Melodee Buzzard’s whereabouts to contact the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office at (805) 681-4150. Anonymous tips can also be left at (805) 681-4171 or through SBSheriff.org.
