Lompoc, Calif. –  Through their investigation, detectives have gathered evidence indicating that Melodee was with her mother, Ashlee Buzzard, as recently as October 7, 2025. Detectives have also determined that Ashlee may have driven with Melodee in a White Chevrolet Malibu (Lic #9MNG101) to locations outside of Santa Barbara County to include as far as the state of Nebraska. The vehicle was determined to be a rental car no longer in Ashlee’s possession.

At this point in the investigation, Ashlee Buzzard remains uncooperative and has not provided detectives with any information about Melodee’s current location or condition. The primary goal of this investigation is to verify the location and welfare of Melodee Buzzard and ensure that she is safe.

Sheriff’s detectives continue to pursue all available leads. This public outreach effort is one part of those ongoing efforts to develop information that could assist investigators. Detectives are aware of the strong community interest in Melodee’s case and are asking the public not to attempt to conduct their own searches or investigations. While well-intentioned, these efforts could unintentionally interfere with investigative work already in progress. Detectives have already conducted a thorough search of the family’s residence and continue to follow verified leads in a coordinated manner.

Anyone who has seen Melodee Buzzard, or has had contact with Ashlee Buzzard since October 7, 2025, is urged to contact the Sheriff’s Criminal Investigations Division at (805) 681-4150. Those wishing to remain anonymous can provide information through the tip line at (805) 681-4171 or online at https://www.sbsheriff.org/home/anonymous-tip/.

Link to previous article here: Detectives Share Update in Search for Missing At-Risk Child – Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office