Fishers, Indiana, February 4, 2026
Authorities in Fishers, Indiana, have confirmed that 17-year-old Hailey Buzbee, missing since early January, is now presumed dead. Suspect Tyler Thomas, 39, has been arrested following the discovery of her body in Ohio. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding her disappearance is ongoing, with the community mourning the loss and highlighting the dangers of online interactions.
Fishers, Indiana – Missing Teen Hailey Buzbee Presumed Dead; Suspect Arrested
Authorities in Fishers, Indiana, have confirmed that 17-year-old Hailey Buzbee, who had been missing since January 5, 2026, is now presumed dead. A 39-year-old man, Tyler Thomas, has been arrested in connection with her disappearance.
Discovery of Buzbee’s Body
On February 1, 2026, Tyler Thomas led the FBI to a location in Perry County, Ohio, where Buzbee’s body was believed to have been found. This development came after an extensive investigation involving multiple states and the FBI. Thomas, from Victorian Village, Ohio, is currently charged with pandering sexually oriented material involving a minor and tampering with evidence. He is being held in a Franklin County jail in Ohio. While he has not been charged with murder, authorities anticipate additional charges, including potential homicide charges in Hocking County. Thomas maintains his innocence regarding Buzbee’s death. His attorney stated that Thomas intends to plead not guilty to any forthcoming charges and suggested that a charge of abuse of a corpse may be more appropriate. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to confirm the exact cause of Buzbee’s death.
Details of the Disappearance
Hailey Buzbee was last seen by her parents on the evening of January 5, 2026, near their home in Fishers, a suburb of Indianapolis. She was believed to have left with Tyler Thomas, a man she met through online gaming. Thomas initially claimed he dropped Buzbee off on the side of a road in western Ohio. However, further investigation revealed inconsistencies in his statement. Authorities discovered evidence that Buzbee had traveled with Thomas to Columbus, Ohio, and had stayed at a short-term rental in Hocking County. The investigation suggests that Buzbee likely died days after she was reported missing.
Community Response
Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness expressed the community’s grief, stating that Buzbee was a “bright light in the family” and had “tremendous promise and hope.” Buzbee’s father described her as “smart, beautiful, and kind.” The community has rallied around the family, offering support during this tragic time.
Background Context
The case of Hailey Buzbee has drawn national attention, highlighting the dangers associated with online interactions. The investigation underscores the importance of monitoring and guiding young individuals’ online activities to ensure their safety. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding Buzbee’s death and are committed to bringing those responsible to justice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened to Hailey Buzbee?
Hailey Buzbee, a 17-year-old from Fishers, Indiana, was last seen on January 5, 2026. Authorities now believe she is deceased, and a 39-year-old man, Tyler Thomas, has been arrested in connection with her disappearance.
Who is Tyler Thomas?
Tyler Thomas is a 39-year-old man from Victorian Village, Ohio. He met Hailey Buzbee through online gaming and is currently charged with pandering sexually oriented material involving a minor and tampering with evidence. He is being held in a Franklin County jail in Ohio.
Where was Hailey Buzbee’s body found?
Hailey Buzbee’s body is believed to have been found in Perry County, Ohio, after Tyler Thomas led the FBI to the location on February 1, 2026.
What charges is Tyler Thomas facing?
Tyler Thomas is currently charged with pandering sexually oriented material involving a minor and tampering with evidence. Authorities anticipate additional charges, including potential homicide charges in Hocking County.
How has the community responded?
The community in Fishers, Indiana, has expressed deep grief over Hailey Buzbee’s presumed death. Mayor Scott Fadness described her as a “bright light in the family,” and her father referred to her as “smart, beautiful, and kind.” The community has shown strong support for the family during this tragic time.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Hailey Buzbee, 17-year-old from Fishers, Indiana |
| Suspect | Tyler Thomas, 39-year-old from Victorian Village, Ohio |
| Disappearance Date | January 5, 2026 |
| Discovery of Body | February 1, 2026, in Perry County, Ohio |
| Charges Against Suspect | Pandering sexually oriented material involving a minor, tampering with evidence; potential homicide charges pending |
| Community Response | Expressions of grief and support for the family from the Fishers community |
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