Social media activity has surfaced showing that an Alabama man, accused of murdering a military veteran and his wife, had been posting about the couple as if they were very close friends for several years.
George Birmingham, 46, was taken into custody early Sunday on charges of killing Justin Elrod and his wife, Lena Elrod. Their bodies were discovered around 12:15 a.m. after a robbery report. Birmingham, who was reportedly friends with the couple, expressed fondness for them in his posts dated June 16.
The relationship between Birmingham and the Elrods has spanned nearly a decade, according to a Facebook post that was reviewed by sources. In a post from June 16, he even humorously contemplated a hypothetical trip to Mars, naming Justin and Lena among those he would want to bring. He commented positively on their listening skills and enjoyment of conversations, wrapping it up with an affectionate note, “Love you all!”
Birmingham also mentioned, perhaps jokingly, that they might not want his “tribe,” but expressed deep gratitude for their friendship.
In another instance from February 2017, he coordinated a GoFundMe campaign to help cover medical expenses for one of the Elrod children, indicating that the family held significant importance to him. Additionally, he organized a benefit comedy show that same year to support them.
Birmingham’s social media posts even included mentions of the Elrod family as late as June 2018, where he referred to them as “my favorite women,” accompanied by a picture of one of their daughters.
As for the details surrounding the crime, Birmingham has been accused of using a power saw to kill Lena and assaulting Justin with a metal object. A motive for the incident has not yet been established, although authorities described Birmingham as an “acquaintance” of the Elrods.
Aliceville Mayor Terrence Windham characterized Justin Elrod as a humble and hardworking individual. Windham reflected on the tragedy, stating that it was beyond comprehension for someone like Justin, who had survived military service and difficult times, to face such a horrific situation.
Birmingham faces charges including one count of capital murder and two counts of murder, among others, and is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on August 20. Additionally, he is a suspect in an earlier robbery that took place before the alleged murders of the Elrods.
