By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
PICKENS COUNTY — A routine response to a reported burglary led Alabama investigators to a double homicide, resulting in capital murder charges against a 45-year-old Pickens County man.
Authorities said George Birmingham, 45, has been charged with capital murder involving two or more victims, two counts of murder, second-degree burglary, possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana, and resisting arrest.
The victims were identified as Justin Elrod, 43, and Lena Elrod, 42, who were found dead inside their home on Langdon Woods Road.
According to the Pickens County Sheriff’s Office, deputies, along with officers from the Reform, Gordo, and Carrollton police departments, responded shortly after 12:15 a.m. Sunday to a report of a burglary in progress at a residence in the 1800 block of County Road 49.
When officers arrived, they found Birmingham inside a vehicle at the burglary scene and took him into custody.
As investigators gathered evidence, they determined Birmingham had allegedly killed the Elrods at their nearby home before traveling to the burglary location. Deputies then went to the residence on Langdon Woods Road, where they discovered the couple dead inside.
Birmingham remains in the Pickens County Jail while the investigation continues. Authorities said additional charges could be filed as detectives continue processing evidence.
“We ask everyone to continue keeping the victims’ families, those affected by this tragedy, and the responding first responders in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time,” said Pickens County Sheriff Jordan Powell