In California, authorities are diligently searching for Melodee Buzzard, a 9-year-old girl who has been missing under concerning circumstances. Recent developments suggest that Melodee might have been spotted earlier this month, yet her mother’s lack of cooperation continues to impede the investigation.

Officials from the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office reported on Monday that evidence indicates Melodee was last seen with her mother, Ashlee Buzzard, on October 7. However, rather than aiding the investigation, Ashlee has not provided any helpful information regarding her daughter’s current location.

It is suspected that Ashlee and Melodee may have traveled beyond Santa Barbara County, potentially reaching as far as Nebraska. Authorities believe Ashlee was driving a rented white Chevrolet Malibu, identified by the license plate 9MNG101. This detail could be crucial for tracking their movements and ensuring Melodee’s safety.

The sheriff’s office has emphasized that the primary focus of their efforts is to verify Melodee’s location and welfare. Their objective remains to confirm that she is safe and well-cared for, amidst growing concerns given Ashlee’s non-cooperation.

Initially, the authorities announced their search for Melodee by stating she hadn’t been seen since a future date in October 2024. This was later corrected to reflect sightings as recent as August 2025, adding to the perplexity surrounding her disappearance. The case has been described as “suspicious,” and it has been revealed that Melodee has been homeschooled for the past few years, which adds another layer to the complexity of the situation.

Authorities announced last week they were looking for Melodee, initially saying she hadn’t been seen since October 2024. The department later said she had been spotted as recently as August 2025, and a sheriff’s spokesperson described her disappearance as “suspicious.” It appears Melodee was homeschooled for at least the last few years, according to the sheriff’s office.

As authorities continue their search, the sheriff’s office is asking community members to not conduct their own investigations.

“While well-intentioned, these efforts could unintentionally interfere with investigative work already in progress,” the department said.

The sheriff’s office urges anyone who has seen Melodee or has had contact with Ashlee Buzzard since Oct. 7 to call the department at 805-681-4150. Tips can be submitted anonymously at 805-681-4171 or www.sbsheriff.org/home/anonymous-tip.