Ohio Man Faces Federal Charges in Grisly Teen Dismemberment Case
A 39-year-old man from Ohio has been charged with federal exploitation offenses after allegedly kidnapping and killing a 17-year-old girl from Indiana, whom he met through the online gaming platform Discord. The case has shocked communities in both states as details emerge of a year-long online relationship that turned deadly.
Disturbing Details of the Alleged Crime
Tyler Thomas, 39, is accused of driving over 250 kilometers from his home in Columbus, Ohio, to Fortville, Indiana, on January 6 to pick up Hailey Buzbee. According to court documents, the two had been communicating for approximately a year via Discord and Snapchat, exchanging sexually explicit messages and photos. Prosecutors allege that Thomas planned the kidnapping during these online interactions, which included disturbing references to violence.
Buzbee was last seen alive near her home in Fishers, Indiana, on January 5. Her dismembered remains were discovered in the Wayne National Forest in Ohio on February 2, following Thomas's guidance to authorities. Despite leading police to the burial site, Thomas has not admitted to the killing and initially claimed the teen was "alive and safe" during an interview on January 21.
Federal and State Investigations Unfold
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Ohio has filed charges against Thomas, including pandering sexually oriented material involving a minor and evidence tampering. Phone data placed Thomas at a Logan, Ohio Airbnb on the night of the kidnapping and near the forest where Buzbee's body was found the next morning. Authorities also recovered devices from his home containing obscene images of a 10-year-old girl and chats with another teenager.
U.S. Attorney Dominick S. Gerace emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, with federal, state, and local law enforcement collaborating to gather evidence. State charges against Thomas are expected to be dismissed as the federal case progresses. He is currently held at Franklin County Jail on a $1.5 million cash bond.
Impact on Online Safety Concerns
This tragic incident highlights the dangers of online interactions, particularly on platforms like Discord used by gamers and teens. It underscores the importance of vigilance and safety measures in digital communications. The case continues to develop as prosecutors seek justice for Buzbee and her family, with further charges possible as more evidence is reviewed.
