Nationwide — Ashley Elkins, an African American mother of two from Warren, Michigan, has been missing since early January 2024 after a tense encounter with her ex-boyfriend, DeAndre Booker. Now charged with murder, Booker denies any wrongdoing, while her family searches for answers and closure.On New Year’s Eve 2024, Elkins, who is a hairstylist, and her sister Alexis were inside Ashley’s home salon when Ashley’s Booker arrived unexpectedly. He knocked on the door but left after waiting outside for several minutes without seeing her. The sisters thought it was nothing serious, according to People.
Two days later, Ashley stopped answering calls. She sent a strange text that didn’t sound like her, and her family grew worried when she didn’t check in on her sons, 10-year-old Braden and 7-year-old Jaden. They reported her missing and traced her phone to Booker’s home in nearby Roseville.
Police later found Ashley’s car abandoned near Booker’s house. Booker was arrested on January 8, charged with lying to police after suspicious internet searches were found on his devices, including “is blood traceable” and “how to beat a polygraph test.” Investigators also discovered blood in his bathroom.
On January 30, 2025, Booker was charged with first-degree murder and mutilating a dead body. Despite thorough searches, Ashley’s body has yet to be found.
Ashley was a hardworking single mother studying to become a beautician. She balanced her schooling, career, and raising her two sons, running a small salon from her kitchen. She was also known for helping others in her community.
Ashley and Booker met on Facebook in 2023. At first, he appeared supportive and even helped her family during difficult times. But over time, Booker’s behavior became controlling. After Ashley discovered messages from other women on his phone, she ended the relationship in late 2024.
Booker has pleaded not guilty. His lawyer disputes the evidence and denies the family’s version of events.
Meanwhile, Ashley’s younger son Jaden, who is on the autism spectrum, still asks when his mom is coming home. Her family continues to search for closure, hoping she will be found and laid to rest.