At a Glance
- Ashlee Buzzard, 40, faces murder charge after her 9-year-old daughter’s body was found in Utah.
- Family says they are in disbelief after the mother pleaded not guilty.
- Trial set for January 7; prosecutors will not seek death penalty.
Why it matters: The case highlights a tragic loss and the legal process surrounding a mother-daughter death.
In a shocking turn of events, Ashlee Buzzard was arrested and charged with the murder of her nine-year-old daughter, Melodee Buzzard, whose body was discovered in Utah earlier this month.
Family Reaction
Relatives of the Lompoc girl, who was found dead in Utah, expressed disbelief and anger over the charges. They described Melodee as a vivacious and loving child, noting that she had been missing since October.
- Marvin Meza said:
> “She was a happy little girl. She loved life. She liked to dance around and whatnot.”
- Lilly Denes said:
> “No, I didn’t. I did tell my son that she was different, but he said she was just quiet.”
- Meza added:
> “I didn’t have much contact with her. I never really talked to her.”
Legal Proceedings
On Tuesday, Ashlee Buzzard was taken into custody and later pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder. The prosecution announced it would not seek the death penalty, leaving family members disappointed.
Key Takeaways
- Ashlee Buzzard faces first-degree murder charge after her daughter’s body was found.
- Family members, including Marvin Meza and Lilly Denes, express disbelief and anger.
- Prosecutors will not pursue the death penalty; the case will proceed to trial on January 7.
The case remains in the courtroom, with the family awaiting the next hearing and the community grappling with the tragedy.
