Woman missing amid ‘strong possibility of foul play’

ROSEVILLE — Investigators have reportedly searched a Macomb County landfill for evidence in the case of Ashley Lashay Elkins, 30, of Warren, a mother of two who was reported missing Jan. 3.

After seizing a dumpster from the Roseville apartment complex of Elkin’s ex-boyfriend Deandre Howard Booker, 32, law enforcement was led to the Pine Tree Acres Landfill in Lenox Township in northern Macomb County. Many law enforcement agencies and officers were part of the dig to find evidence of Elkins’ whereabouts or her remains.

According to media reports, police examined a particular section of the 370-acre landfill.  The landfill search reportedly began on Monday, Jan. 13 and wrapped up Tuesday afternoon, Jan. 14.

The Roseville Police Department is the lead investing agency on this case.

Booker was arraigned in the 39th District Court Jan. 9 on the charge of lying to police about the disappearance of Elkins.

According to police, Booker repeatedly and willfully provided false information during the police investigation regarding the whereabouts of Elkins, who was reported missing by her family when she did not return to her southeast Warren home after running morning errands the day before.

The Warren Police Department initiated an investigation after receiving the first missing person’s report.

Elkins was last seen in Roseville on Jan. 2. Neither her family and friends nor law enforcement have been able to reach her since. She is described as a Black female, 5 feet 2 inches tall, weighing approximately 150 pounds.

On Jan. 7, the Roseville Police Department took over as the lead investigative agency when it was determined there was a “strong possibility of foul play” at the Hampton Court Apartments near Frazho Road and Gratiot Avenue, where Booker resides.

The investigation continues with the assistance of Warren police.

According to a press release from the Warren Police Department on Jan. 8, “significant” forensic evidence was recovered at the apartment complex and will be analyzed by the Michigan State Police. A dumpster was reportedly seized as part of the investigation.

Elkins’ vehicle, a silver Chevrolet Malibu, was recovered near 13 Mile Road and Little Mack Avenue.

According to the updated release, the Warren Police Department executed nearly 20 search warrants, conducted comprehensive video canvasses, examined numerous pieces of digital evidence and interviewed friends and family members in an effort to find Elkins.

Roseville police have dedicated significant resources to this investigation, according to the release.

“Our hearts go out to the family of the missing woman during this difficult time. Providing false information to law enforcement in a case like this not only hinders the investigation but adds further pain and uncertainty for the loved ones searching for answers. We remain committed to seeking justice and ensuring that every effort is made to bring resolution to this case,” Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido said in a written release.

“The Roseville Police Department and Warren Police Department are actively pursuing numerous leads and remain in contact with Ms. Elkins’ family,” said Lt. John Gajewski, public information officer for the Warren Police Department, in a release. “This is an ongoing and active investigation, and we understand the media and public’s interest. We kindly request patience, as thorough investigations and due process require careful attention to detail. Further updates will be provided to the media as they become available.”

Booker was arraigned before Judge Alyia Hakim and appeared via Zoom video. He was charged with lying to a police officer during a violent crime investigation, a four-year felony. Hakim set bond at $250,000 cash or surety only.

According to court records, no public defender had been appointed at press time.

A preliminary exam is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. Jan. 29, in person before Judge Joseph Boedeker in the 39th District Court.

Anyone with information regarding Elkins or this case is asked to contact Roseville Police Detective Matthew Lesperance at (586) 447-4505 or mlesperance@rosevillepo lice-mi.com.