Lompoc, CA – Federal and local authorities are urgently searching for 9-year-old Melodee Buzzard, who was reported missing after last being seen traveling with her mother from Lompoc, California, toward Utah in early October.
According to the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI, detectives believe Melodee and her mother, Ashlee Buzzard, left California on October 7 in a white 2024 Chevrolet Malibu, initially bearing California plate 9MNG101. Surveillance later placed the vehicle near the Colorado–Utah border, close to Green River, Utah, on October 9–10, 2025.
Investigators said the Malibu was later observed with a New York license plate—believed to be switched to avoid detection—and has since been returned to a rental agency in Lompoc. Authorities have not confirmed Melodee’s current location or welfare.
Law enforcement agencies in California, Utah, Nevada, Arizona, and Colorado are coordinating search efforts and urging the public to remain alert. Officials say Melodee may be wearing a wig to disguise her appearance.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Criminal Investigations Division at (805) 681-4150, the anonymous tip line at (805) 681-4171, or submit information online at www.sbsheriff.org/home/anonymous-tip.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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