ROSEVILLE, MI – Chilling revelations surfaced in a Macomb County courtroom this week in the ongoing case against Deandre Booker, a 33-year-old man accused of murdering his ex-girlfriend, Ashley Lashay Elkins. Prosecutors detailed a troubling timeline leading up to and following Elkins’ disappearance, citing unsettling internet searches allegedly made by Booker that suggest planning and attempts to cover up the crime.
Booker faces four felony charges, including first-degree murder, tampering with evidence, disinterment and mutilation of a body, and concealing the death of an individual. Authorities say the charges stem from the events of January 2, when Elkins, a 30-year-old mother of two, went to Booker’s Roseville apartment and never returned.
Court documents and testimony presented Friday indicated that Booker was first arrested on January 8 on suspicion of providing false information to investigators about Elkins’ disappearance. More severe charges were filed against him nearly three weeks later, after investigators developed what they say is a detailed picture of premeditation.
Investigators traced Booker’s Google search history, which, according to prosecutors, began displaying troubling queries as early as December 22. Among the searches were phrases such as “telling god I want to kill someone,” “9mm silencer Roseville,” and “murder out of rage ex.” Authorities say these digital breadcrumbs continued through January 2, with additional queries like “shoot gun through pillow” and “can you track location when phone is off.”
Police say that after Elkins vanished, Booker’s internet searches included “what happened to trash after its picked up,” a question detectives believe is significant as they allege Booker attempted to dispose of Elkins’ body in a dumpster at his apartment complex.
Detective Chris Moran testified that blood evidence tied to Elkins was recovered from the bathroom and other areas of Booker’s apartment. Further evidence reportedly emerged from a search of a dumpster at the residence, where authorities say blood stains were found. This discovery led to a wider investigation, including a search at Pine Tree Acres Landfill in Lenox Township. Despite extensive efforts, Elkins’ body has not been located.
After Elkins was reported missing, police located her vehicle and conducted a search of Booker’s home. In the days following her disappearance, Booker allegedly initiated contact with police, inviting them to inspect his apartment, where authorities say they observed additional blood evidence.
Courtroom proceedings have drawn attention to the lengths prosecutors believe Booker went to in order to conceal the crime. They argue that the digital evidence, as well as the physical clues recovered, point to a methodical attempt to plan and cover up the killing.
Family members of Elkins, as well as community members, have expressed anguish as the case unfolds. Prosecutors have reaffirmed their commitment to seeking justice for the victim and her loved ones, noting the lasting impact the incident has had on those close to Elkins.
Booker remains in custody as the case moves forward. His trial is scheduled to continue Friday in Macomb County, where further evidence and testimony are expected to be presented.