Ohio Man Held on $1.5 Million Bond After Missing Indiana Teen Found Dead

Teen's Body Found in Perry County, Ohio

A 39-year-old man identified as Tyler Thomas is in custody in Franklin County, Ohio, after the body of 17-year-old Hailey Buzbee, a missing teen from Indiana, was found in Perry County, Ohio, over the weekend.

According to Thomas' attorney, Sam Shamansky, Buzbee, who disappeared from her home near Indianapolis on January 5, was located in Perry County east of Columbus on Sunday. Investigators said they believe Buzbee died shortly after she disappeared on January 5.

Custody, Charges, and Bond

Authorities are holding Thomas in Franklin County on charges related to Buzbee's disappearance and death, including pandering obscenity and tampering with evidence. Prosecutors indicate that Thomas has no prior criminal history and that his bond is set at $1.5 million. Murder charges are expected to be filed in Hocking County. Shamansky stated that Thomas would plead not guilty if he is charged with homicide in connection with Buzbee's death.

Court documents allege that Thomas recorded a video of Buzbee performing sex acts at his home in the Victorian Village neighborhood and later attempted to delete the video. Evidence cited by investigators suggests that Thomas and Buzbee traveled to a short-term rental in Hocking County prior to her death.

Law Enforcement Investigation and Cooperation

Shamansky confirmed that Thomas led authorities to the location of Buzbee's body in Perry County over the weekend and stated that he took law enforcement to the precise spot where the remains were found. Buzbee's body was located on Sunday. Shamansky said Thomas did so to avoid what he described as a needless search.

Police tracked a vehicle seen in Buzbee's neighborhood in Indiana to Thomas, who admitted to picking her up after the two met through online gaming. Multiple agencies, including Columbus police and the FBI, are involved in the ongoing investigation into Buzbee's death and Thomas' alleged role in the events leading up to it.

Statements from Attorney and Family

Following Thomas' arraignment on Monday, Shamansky said that Thomas would enter a not guilty plea if homicide charges are filed. He emphasized what he described as Thomas' cooperation in helping locate Buzbee's remains and referenced collective work between his office and law enforcement in bringing what he called closure to Buzbee's family.

Buzbee's family posted a message on Facebook thanking the public for their prayers and support. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death remains active, with additional charges anticipated in Hocking County.