Lompoc, CA – Authorities in California are searching for 9-year-old Melodee Buzzard, who disappeared after her mother allegedly drove her from Lompoc to Nebraska earlier this month and returned home without her. Police say the mother has been “uncooperative” in the investigation, deepening fears for the young girl’s safety.
The Incident: Child Vanishes After Road Trip
According to the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office, Melodee Buzzard was last seen on October 7 when she left her family’s home on Mars Avenue in Lompoc with her mother, Ashlee Buzzard, for what was described as a trip to Nebraska.
When the pair failed to return as expected and Ashlee came back alone, concerns quickly escalated. Authorities said the mother has not provided any verifiable explanation for Melodee’s whereabouts.
“Buzzard remains uncooperative and has not provided any information about her daughter’s location or welfare,” deputies said in a statement.
Law enforcement first became aware of the situation on October 14, when the Lompoc Unified School District reported Melodee’s extended absence from class. When deputies visited the home, the girl was missing, and there was no credible account of what had happened during the week-long trip.
Investigation and Search Efforts
Sheriff Bill Brown called the case “perplexing” and said the department shares the public’s concern for Melodee’s safety.
“The Sheriff’s Office shares the community’s concern for Melodee’s safety and is committed to bringing her home,” Brown said. “We are hopeful that Melodee might be with someone — perhaps an extended family member or friend — who may not be aware of the circumstances of her disappearance.”
Local, state, and federal agencies are working together to locate the missing girl. Investigators have not announced any criminal charges against the mother but say every lead is being pursued.
Police have released an older photograph of Melodee, taken approximately two years ago, noting that her appearance may have changed. She is described as 4 feet 6 inches tall, weighing about 60 pounds, with brown eyes and brown hair.
Authorities have urged residents not to conduct independent searches and instead to provide tips by calling the anonymous tip line at (805) 681-4171.
Family Background and Mother’s Mental Health Struggles
In an interview with local media, Ashlee Buzzard’s mother, Lori Miranda, said her daughter has struggled with mental health issues since the death of Melodee’s father in a car crash years ago.
“I couldn’t believe it was my daughter,” Miranda said, describing her daughter’s deteriorating condition. “The house was in disarray. There were raw eggs in pans, and rotten food in the fridge — I think she was trying to give my granddaughter.”
According to Miranda, Child Protective Services (CPS) had previously intervened and took custody of Melodee after authorities found her living in squalid conditions. Miranda said she has not seen her granddaughter in nearly two years.
Plea from the Family: “Please Tell Someone Who You Are”
In an emotional plea, Miranda addressed her missing granddaughter directly through the media, hoping Melodee might see or hear her message.
“Please tell somebody, ‘I’m Melodee Buzzard,’” Miranda said. “‘My grandma, Luna, is looking for me. Please call the police.’”
The family is urging anyone who may have seen Melodee or her mother in the past few weeks — especially along travel routes between California and Nebraska — to come forward with information.
Ongoing Developments and Next Steps
Authorities are continuing to trace Ashlee Buzzard’s movements during the road trip to determine where Melodee was last seen. Investigators are examining digital records, vehicle data, and phone communications to piece together the timeline of the journey.
While the mother remains a person of interest, officials say the immediate focus is on locating Melodee safely and determining whether she may be with extended family, friends, or someone unaware of her missing status.
The FBI and National Center for Missing and Exploited Children have also been notified and are assisting in the investigation.
Conclusion
The disappearance of 9-year-old Melodee Buzzard has left the Lompoc community deeply unsettled as authorities race against time to find her. Investigators are urging the public to remain alert, share information, and avoid speculation while the search continues.
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