A Michigan man has been charged with murder in connection to the disappearance of his ex-girlfriend, Ashley Elkins, who went missing earlier this month.
Ashley, 30, vanished on January 2 after leaving her home in Warren, Michigan, to run errands. Days later, police arrested her ex-boyfriend, DeAndre Booker, for allegedly lying to them during their investigation. Now, authorities have escalated the charges—accusing Booker of premeditated murder, tampering with evidence, dismembering and mutilating a corpse, and hiding her death. Despite this, Ashley’s body has yet to be found.
Investigators say Ashley went to Booker’s home in Roseville on the day she disappeared, and they believe he killed her and then got rid of her remains. When police searched his home, they reportedly found evidence suggesting a violent crime had taken place. Officers later combed through a landfill for days, hoping to find clues, but came up empty-handed.
Ashley’s disappearance sparked an outpouring of support from friends, family, and the community. A GoFundMe campaign set up to help her two young sons has raised over $13,000. Last weekend, loved ones gathered for an emotional vigil, lighting candles and releasing emerald and purple balloons in her honor.
Her family is devastated. Ashley’s 7-year-old son, who is on the autism spectrum, still asks for his mom every day, not understanding why she hasn’t come home. Meanwhile, her 10-year-old has been suffering from constant nightmares.
Ashley’s uncle, Maurice Morton, said the family is relieved that Booker is finally facing murder charges. “This won’t bring us closure, but it’s the first step toward justice,” he said.
As of now, it’s unclear whether Booker has entered a plea or has legal representation.
