ROSEVILLE, MI – Chilling new evidence has surfaced in the case of a man accused of killing his former girlfriend earlier this year, shedding light on his alleged premeditation and actions after her disappearance.

Deandre Booker, 33, faces charges of first-degree murder, tampering with evidence, disinterment and mutilation, and concealing the death of an individual in connection with the disappearance and presumed death of 30-year-old Ashley Lashay Elkins.

Booker was first taken into custody on Jan. 8 on accusations that he misled investigators regarding Elkins’ whereabouts after she was reported missing. Additional charges were filed against him nearly three weeks later, as authorities built their case.

According to prosecutors, Elkins visited Booker’s residence in Roseville on Jan. 2. Investigators believe she was killed at the apartment and her body was subsequently disposed of by the defendant.

During a court hearing in Macomb County on Friday, law enforcement officers presented a series of disturbing internet searches allegedly made from Booker’s phone leading up to and following Elkins’ disappearance. Detective Chris Moran detailed a timeline that began on Dec. 22, 2024, when Booker purportedly searched for phrases such as “telling god i want to kill someone” and “murder out of rage ex.” Less than a week later, further inquiries reportedly included information on “9mm silencer roseville” and similar firearm-related topics.

The digital trail, according to authorities, continued into January. On the day Elkins vanished, Booker is alleged to have looked up whether a gunshot could be muffled by a pillow, as well as whether a phone’s location could be tracked if it was turned off. Just a few days later, searches about what happens to trash after garbage collection surfaced on his device.

Detectives said evidence found at Booker’s apartment complex strengthened their suspicions. Blood was discovered in a dumpster on the premises, leading to his second arrest on Jan. 31. Additional traces of blood from Elkins were found inside Booker’s residence, including droplets in the bathroom and other areas.

Police located Elkins’ car five days after her disappearance and conducted a thorough search of Booker’s apartment. Despite these efforts, investigators have yet to locate Elkins’ body, though the search has extended to the Pine Tree Acres Landfill in Lenox Township.

Authorities assert that Booker’s internet activity indicates extensive planning and efforts to conceal the crime. They say his interest in the post-collection fate of trash suggests concern over the discovery of Elkins’ remains.

Court documents show that after she disappeared, Booker invited police to examine his apartment, a move that led to the discovery of crucial forensic clues. Investigators continue to build their case, supported by digital, physical, and circumstantial evidence.

Elkins, a mother of two, has not been found, leaving her family and the community searching for closure. Booker’s trial proceedings are slated to resume on Friday as prosecutors seek a conviction in a case that has deeply affected local residents.

Authorities have emphasized their dedication to finding answers for Elkins’ loved ones and ensuring accountability for those responsible. The investigation remains active as the search for additional evidence continues.