Missing Indiana teen Hailey Buzbee found dead, suspect in custody

Police say evidence indicates 17-year-old was killed by Ohio man she met online

Feb. 1, 2026 at 4:55pm

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Hailey Buzbee, a 17-year-old student at Hamilton Southeastern High School in Fishers, Indiana, has been found dead, according to the Fishers Police Department. Buzbee was reported missing on January 5th, and police say evidence indicates she was killed by Tyler Thomas, an Ohio man she had met online, within a few days of her disappearance. Thomas is currently in custody on charges related to the case, though he has not been charged with murder.

Why it matters

The tragic death of Hailey Buzbee has shaken the Fishers community and raised concerns about the dangers of online interactions, particularly for young people. Her case highlights the importance of internet safety education and the need for continued vigilance to protect vulnerable youth.

The details

According to police, Buzbee was last seen by her parents at 10 pm on January 5th. Investigators determined that she had been picked up by Tyler Thomas, an Ohio man she had met online, and taken to his home in Columbus, Ohio, and a short-term rental in Hocking County, Ohio. Evidence collected, along with statements from Thomas, led police to conclude that Buzbee was dead within a few days of her disappearance. Thomas is currently in custody in Ohio on charges related to the case, though he has not been charged with murder.

  • Buzbee was last seen by her parents on January 5th at 10 pm.
  • Buzbee was reported missing on January 20th, with her case upgraded to an "endangered missing juvenile".
  • Police announced Buzbee's death on February 1st, 2026.

The players

Hailey Buzbee

A 17-year-old student at Hamilton Southeastern High School in Fishers, Indiana, who was reported missing on January 5th and found dead several days later.

Tyler Thomas

An Ohio man who Buzbee had met online and who is currently in custody on charges related to her death, though he has not been charged with murder.

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What they’re saying

“Hailey was a smart, beautiful, kind, and caring young lady with a bright future. She had a deep love for her family and holds a very special place in so many hearts.”

— Beau Buzbee, Hailey's father (Facebook)

What’s next

The judge in Ohio will determine whether to grant Tyler Thomas bail as the investigation into Hailey Buzbee's death continues.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the critical need for parents and communities to educate young people about the risks of online interactions and to remain vigilant in protecting vulnerable youth from predators. Hailey's death is a heartbreaking loss, and her family's grief is shared by all who knew and loved her.