Missing Indiana Teen Hailey Buzbee Believed Deceased

Columbus man Tyler Thomas arrested on charges related to her disappearance

Feb. 1, 2026 at 6:31pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Officials with the Fishers Police Department in Indiana announced on Sunday that they believe 17-year-old Hailey Buzbee, who went missing on January 5, is deceased. A 39-year-old Columbus, Ohio man named Tyler Thomas has been arrested and charged in connection with her disappearance.

Why it matters

The tragic news of Hailey Buzbee's presumed death has shaken the Fishers community, raising concerns about online predators and the safety of young people. The case highlights the critical importance of thorough investigations and collaboration between law enforcement agencies to bring justice for victims and their families.

The details

According to police, Buzbee, a junior at Hamilton Southeastern High School, left her home on January 5 and was believed to have gone with Thomas, whom she had been in contact with through online gaming. Thomas was arrested in Ohio on charges of pandering sexually oriented material involving a minor and tampering with evidence. Authorities say they believe Buzbee was killed within days of her disappearance, though her body has not yet been recovered.

  • Hailey Buzbee went missing on January 5, 2026.
  • Thomas was arrested on Saturday, February 1, 2026.
  • Thomas is expected to appear in court in Ohio on Monday, February 2, 2026.

The players

Hailey Buzbee

A 17-year-old junior at Hamilton Southeastern High School who went missing on January 5, 2026 and is believed to be deceased.

Tyler Thomas

A 39-year-old Columbus, Ohio resident who has been arrested and charged in connection with Buzbee's disappearance.

Fishers Police Department

The law enforcement agency leading the investigation into Buzbee's disappearance.

FBI

The federal law enforcement agency providing technical assistance and investigative support for the case.

Indiana State Police

The state law enforcement agency also involved in the investigation.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Be patient as this investigation continues and the search for Hailey continues.”

— Timothy O'Malley, FBI Special Agent in Charge for Indianapolis (nbc4i.com)

“Our family is devastated. We want the community and others to know that we are so thankful for the support we received. It's been tremendous and gave us the hope and strength we needed during our darkest hours.”

— Beau Buzbee (nbc4i.com)

What’s next

The judge in Ohio will decide on Monday whether to allow Tyler Thomas to be released on bail. The search for Hailey Buzbee's body is expected to continue as the investigation progresses.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the urgent need for greater online safety protections for young people and stronger collaboration between law enforcement agencies to combat predatory behavior. The Fishers community's outpouring of support for the Buzbee family is a testament to the power of community in the face of unimaginable loss.