Ohio Teen's Disappearance Linked to Online Gaming Contact; 39-Year-Old Man Arrested on Evidence Charges
VERMILLION, Ohio — A month-long investigation into the disappearance of a local teenager has taken a tragic turn, with police now presuming her dead and a 39-year-old man in custody on related felony charges.
Hailey Buzbee, 17, was last seen by her family on the evening of January 5. Initially reported as a potential runaway, the case escalated as detectives from the Fisher Police Department (FPD) pieced together her final known movements.
During a somber press conference Sunday, Police Chief Ed Gebhart revealed that the investigation led to Tyler Thomas of Columbus. The two had connected through an online gaming platform. Thomas, 39, admitted to picking Buzbee up from her home but claimed he later dropped her off along a roadside in western Ohio.
"Subsequent investigation and evidence contradicted his initial account," Chief Gebhart stated. Detectives, aided by the FBI and multiple state agencies, used technological forensics to place Thomas's vehicle in Buzbee's neighborhood the night she vanished. Evidence suggests the pair stayed together at a short-term rental property shortly after.
Thomas is currently held without bond at the Franklin County Jail on charges of pandering obscenity and tampering with evidence—charges directly tied to the Buzbee case. Prosecutors have not yet filed murder charges, indicating the active and ongoing nature of the investigation.
The community and Buzbee's high school are reeling from the news. "The family is utterly devastated," said Fisher Mayor Scott Fadness, who called for community support in the wake of the tragedy.
Thomas is scheduled for a court appearance Monday. The FPD continues to work with federal and state partners on the case.
Community Reaction
Mark Stevens, 42, Local Business Owner: "This is every parent's nightmare. It highlights the real dangers that can lurk behind seemingly harmless online interactions. We need better education for our kids on digital safety."
Rebecca Choi, 28, Social Worker: "The age gap and the meeting through gaming are deeply concerning patterns. This case should prompt a serious conversation about predatory behavior in digital spaces and how platforms can improve safeguards for minors."
David Miller, 55, Retired Teacher (Voice trembling with anger): "Where is the justice? A young life is gone, and he's sitting in jail on evidence tampering? The system needs to move faster and hit harder. This wasn't a mistake; it was a calculated act targeting a child. When do we start treating these crimes with the severity they deserve?"
Lisa Garcia, 33, Mother of Two Teenagers: "My heart breaks for Hailey's family. It's a stark reminder to have open, non-judgmental conversations with our children about who they're talking to online. Trust but verify. Always."