Tyler Thomas, a 39-year-old resident of Columbus, Ohio, has been charged with federal offenses related to the death of 17-year-old Hailey Buzbee, whose dismembered remains were discovered in Wayne National Forest. His charges include sexual exploitation of a minor and traveling across state lines with the intent to engage in illicit sexual activity. These allegations were made public by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Ohio, detailing that Thomas allegedly met Buzbee online while playing video games.

The federal complaint specifies that Thomas traveled from Columbus to Indiana to pick up Buzbee on the night of January 5–6, 2023, and then returned to Ohio intending to produce child pornography. This incident has attracted significant public attention due to the heinous nature of the crime and the victim's age, raising concern about online safety for minors. The legal consequences of these charges could lead Thomas to face up to 30 years in prison for each count if found guilty.

Authorities, including the FBI, are committed to thoroughly investigating the case, seeking out additional evidence in pursuit of justice for Buzbee and her family. This tragedy underscores ongoing discussions regarding child safety in digital environments and the risks associated with online interactions among minors, emphasizing the need for parental awareness and protective measures.