FISHERS, IN – The month-long search for a missing Indiana teenager ended in tragedy after a suspect in custody directed FBI agents to the location of her remains in rural Ohio.
Hailey Buzbee, 17, had been missing since January 5 when she was last seen at her home in Fishers, a suburb northeast of Indianapolis. Her disappearance prompted a multi-state investigation involving the Fishers Police Department, the FBI, and law enforcement agencies in Ohio.
Tyler Thomas, 39, was arrested in connection with Buzbee’s disappearance and is expected to face homicide or murder charges, according to his attorney. Thomas initially told investigators he had dropped the teenager off on a roadside in Ohio, but his lawyer confirmed that he ultimately led FBI agents to Buzbee’s body in Perry County.
Thomas appeared in court Monday, where a judge set his bond at $1.5 million. He currently faces charges of pandering sexually oriented material involving a minor and tampering with evidence. Prosecutors allege Thomas had illicit images on his phone that he attempted to delete.
Investigators believe Buzbee was killed at a short-term rental property in Hocking County, Ohio, before her body was moved to Perry County. The cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, and authorities said additional charges are forthcoming as the investigation continues.
The case drew widespread attention in central Indiana, where volunteers and community members had organized searches and distributed flyers in the weeks following Buzbee’s disappearance. Fishers police credited tips from the public with helping advance the investigation.
Buzbee’s family has asked for privacy as they grieve. A memorial is being planned in the Fishers community.
Thomas remains in custody. His next court appearance has not yet been scheduled.
