Indianapolis, February 2, 2026
Indianapolis has been in the spotlight with the recent 7th Annual Indiana Pacers STEM Fest, which featured hands-on educational activities. Simultaneously, the local community grapples with the disappearance of 17-year-old Hailey Buzbee, prompting investigations into her case and the arrest of a suspect. The city’s commitment to education and public safety plays a crucial role as these events unfold, highlighting the community’s resilience amid challenges.
Indianapolis, Indiana – Recent Developments in Local Events and Investigations
Indianapolis, Indiana – In recent days, Indianapolis has been the focal point of significant events, including the 7th Annual Indiana Pacers STEM Fest and developments in the investigation of the missing teenager, Hailey Buzbee.
7th Annual Indiana Pacers STEM Fest
On Saturday, January 31, 2026, Gainbridge Fieldhouse in downtown Indianapolis hosted the 7th Annual Indiana Pacers STEM Fest, presented by Lilly. The event transformed the main concourse into an interactive space where fans engaged with hands-on experiments led by various Indiana businesses and universities. Pacers Sports & Entertainment CEO Mel Raines emphasized that the festival’s mission was to bridge the gap between classroom concepts and real-world applications. Beyond the public activities, students from seven Indianapolis Public Schools gathered inside the arena for a private session of NBA Math Hoops. The curriculum uses actual NBA and WNBA player statistics to help students in grades 4-8 sharpen their math skills through a fast-paced board game. As an added bonus, everyone who bought a ticket for the festival also secured a seat for the Pacers vs. Utah Jazz game, which took place on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 7 p.m.
Investigation into Missing Teenager Hailey Buzbee
In a separate development, the Fishers Police Department has been actively investigating the case of 17-year-old Hailey Buzbee, who was reported missing on January 5, 2026. Authorities have identified 39-year-old Tyler Thomas from Ohio as a suspect in connection with her disappearance. Thomas was arrested and charged with pandering sexually oriented material involving a minor and tampering with evidence. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to locate Buzbee’s remains to provide closure to her family.
Background on Hailey Buzbee’s Disappearance
Hailey Buzbee, a student at Hamilton Southeastern High School, was last seen at her home in the Enclave at Vermillion neighborhood in Fishers, Indiana, around 10 p.m. on January 5, 2026. Her parents reported her missing after she left the house between 10 p.m. and the early hours of the next morning. Initially, the case was classified as a runaway, but further investigation led authorities to believe she did not act alone and was in a dangerous situation. The Fishers Police Department has been collaborating with state and federal law enforcement partners to locate Hailey and bring those responsible to justice.
Community Response and Support
The community has shown strong support for Hailey’s family during this challenging time. Volunteers, known as the “Army for Hailey,” have been assisting with search efforts, and local organizations are providing resources to help the family cope with their loss. The Fishers Police Department continues to encourage the public to share any information that may assist in the investigation and to support the Buzbee family as they navigate this difficult period.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the 7th Annual Indiana Pacers STEM Fest?
The 7th Annual Indiana Pacers STEM Fest is an event that took place on January 31, 2026, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. It featured interactive hands-on experiments led by various Indiana businesses and universities, aiming to bridge the gap between classroom concepts and real-world applications.
Who is Hailey Buzbee?
Hailey Buzbee is a 17-year-old student from Fishers, Indiana, who was reported missing on January 5, 2026. She was last seen at her home in the Enclave at Vermillion neighborhood around 10 p.m. on that date.
What charges have been brought against Tyler Thomas?
Tyler Thomas, a 39-year-old man from Ohio, has been charged with pandering sexually oriented material involving a minor and tampering with evidence in connection with Hailey Buzbee’s disappearance.
How can the community assist in the investigation?
The Fishers Police Department encourages the public to share any information that may assist in the investigation. Individuals can contact the department at 317-773-1282 or call 911 with pertinent information.
Key Features of the 7th Annual Indiana Pacers STEM Fest
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, Indiana |
| Date | January 31, 2026 |
| Activities | Interactive hands-on experiments led by Indiana businesses and universities |
| Special Session | NBA Math Hoops for students from seven Indianapolis Public Schools |
| Bonus | Ticket holders received access to the Pacers vs. Utah Jazz game on February 3, 2026 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Car Crashes into Firetruck in Indianapolis
IndyGo Celebrates Rosa Parks’ Birthday with Free Rides
Indianapolis Shooting Leaves One Dead, One Injured
Wienie 500 Returns to Indy Motor Speedway
IU Indianapolis Men’s Track Team Shatters Records in South Bend
Freedom 250 Grand Prix Set to Honor America’s 250th Anniversary
Harvick Hints at Return to NASCAR Following Stewart’s Comeback
IndyCar Race to Commemorate America’s Independence
Temporary Deal Averts Government Shutdown Over Immigration Issues
Indianapolis Woman Rescued from Submerged Car
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
