Federal grand jury indicts Columbus man for murder of Indiana teen – Spectrum News

Federal grand jury indicts Columbus man for murder of Indiana teen  Spectrum News

A federal grand jury indicted Tyler Nike Thomas, 39, of Columbus, for allegedly sexually exploiting and murdering an Indiana teen. COLUMBUS, Ohio — A federal grand jury indicted Tyler Nike Thomas, 39, of Columbus, for allegedly sexually exploiting and murdering an Indiana teen. “Prosecutors from my office have worked diligently with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners over the past eight months to bring today’s charges forward, never losing sight of the pursuit of justice for Hailey Buzbee and her family,” said U.S. Attorney Dominick S. Gerace II. “I want to assure the public that we will not waiver as we see this case through. That diligent work, dedication and commitment to justice will continue as this case proceeds.” Thomas met Buzbee online playing video games, including Roblox and League of Legends, according to court records.

He allegedly enticed the victim to engage in sexual activity as early as May 2024. Thomas traveled from Columbus to Fortville, Indiana, during the overnight hours of Jan. 5 and Jan. 6 to transport the victim to Columbus with intent to engage in sexual acts with the victim, according to court records. He was initially arrested in January on a local charge, which was dismissed when he was taken into federal custody and charged by federal criminal complaint. On Wednesday, a nine-count