FBI Joins Search for Missing 9-Year-Old California Girl, Police Believe She May Be in Nebraska
SANTA BARBARA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA — The FBI has joined local authorities in the urgent search for 9-year-old Melodee Buzzard, who vanished from Santa Barbara County earlier this year and may have been taken across state lines.
According to investigators, Melodee was last confirmed to be with her mother, Ashley Buzzard, as recently as October 7. Police say Ashley has not cooperated with law enforcement, further complicating efforts to locate the missing girl.
Authorities now believe the two may have traveled as far as Nebraska, raising concerns that Melodee could be in danger.
Missing Since August
Melodee Buzzard was last seen in August, according to the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office. Since then, search efforts have expanded across multiple states after tips suggested possible sightings of the child and her mother driving through the Midwest.
The FBI’s involvement signals an escalation in the case, as federal agents assist in tracking digital activity, vehicle movements, and possible border crossings.
“We are working closely with federal authorities to locate Melodee and ensure her safety,” said one Santa Barbara County investigator. “We’re asking anyone with information to come forward immediately.”
Mother Reportedly Uncooperative
Police have described Ashley Buzzard as “uncooperative and evasive” during the investigation. Officials have not clarified whether Ashley currently faces any criminal charges but confirmed that she is being treated as a person of interest in her daughter’s disappearance.
Friends and family members told reporters they are worried for Melodee’s safety, noting that Ashley has a history of unstable behavior and may be attempting to avoid law enforcement.
Possible Nebraska Connection
Law enforcement agencies in Nebraska and surrounding states have been notified, as investigators believe the pair may have crossed state lines in the weeks after Melodee was last seen in California.
“We’re coordinating with multiple jurisdictions because interstate travel may be involved,” said one FBI spokesperson. “Every lead is being pursued, and time is critical in cases involving missing children.”
Authorities have not disclosed what vehicle the mother and daughter may be traveling in, but investigators are urging residents to remain alert for any possible sightings of Melodee.
How the Public Can Help
Melodee is described as a 9-year-old girl with long dark hair and brown eyes. Her photos have been widely shared through Amber Alert-style bulletins, as well as on social media and national missing child databases.
Anyone with information about Melodee Buzzard’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office or the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) by calling 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678).
National Attention Grows
Melodee’s disappearance has drawn growing public attention online after a segment aired by OANN, highlighting the ongoing search efforts and the mother’s lack of cooperation.
The case remains open and active as law enforcement agencies continue to follow leads that stretch from California to the Midwest.
Anyone who believes they may have seen Melodee or her mother should not approach them directly but should immediately call local police or the FBI.
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