Lompoc, Calif.  – Sheriff’s detectives are releasing an updated timeline and recently obtained surveillance images as they continue their search for missing 9-year-old Melodee Buzzard.

The investigation began on October 14, 2025, when a school administrator reported Melodee’s extended absence. Deputies responded to her residence in the 500-block of Mars Avenue in Lompoc, where they contacted Melodee’s mother, 35-year-old Ashlee Buzzard. Melodee was not at the home, and no verifiable explanation for her whereabouts was provided.

Through their ongoing investigation, detectives have narrowed the critical timeline to between October 7 and October 10, 2025. Investigators have confirmed that Ashlee was seen returning to her Lompoc residence on October 10, driving the same rental vehicle she departed with on October 7—but Melodee was not in the car. Investigators understand that this three-day road trip went from Lompoc to the Nebraska area, with the return trip including the state of Kansas. Detectives are now focused on determining where Melodee was during those three days and where she may be now.

As part of this update, detectives are sharing surveillance images of Melodee captured at a local car rental business on October 7. In the photo, Melodee is wearing a hooded sweatshirt with the hood pulled up and what appears to be a wig that is darker and straighter than her natural hair. Investigators believe the wig may have been used to alter her appearance. Detectives also note that Ashlee is known to wear wigs.

Sheriff Bill Brown said, “Our detectives are following every lead in this case. We continue to seek information from the public that could help us find Melodee,” said Sheriff Bill Brown. “We remain determined to bring her home safely.”

Detectives are asking anyone who has seen Melodee or has information about her whereabouts to contact the Sheriff’s Office through one of the following methods:

• Detectives Line: (805) 681-4150
• Anonymous Tip Line: (805) 681-4171
• Online Tips: org

Members of the public are asked not to conduct independent searches or investigations, as doing so could interfere with law enforcement efforts. The best way to help is by sharing factual information directly with detectives.

Melodee Buzzard is described as a 9-year-old female, approximately 4 feet 6 inches tall, 60 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes.

Detectives will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available that does not compromise the integrity of the investigation.