An Alabama community is reeling after authorities said a military veteran and his wife were brutally killed during an apparent burglary at their home.
The Pickens County Sheriff’s Office said a 46-year-old man was taken into custody after the husband and wife were found dead Sunday inside their residence in Reform, Alabama.
Deputies identified the victims as Justin Elrod and his wife, Lena Elrod. Officials said the couple was discovered around 12:15 a.m. after law enforcement received reports of a burglary at the property.
Authorities said George Birmingham has been arrested and is facing one count of capital murder, two counts of murder, one count of burglary, and additional charges connected to alleged drug offenses.
According to court records, Birmingham is accused of killing Lena Elrod with an electric saw, while Justin Elrod was allegedly stabbed or struck in the head with a metal object.
Investigators said Birmingham is accused of killing the couple before the burglary took place inside their home.
A motive has not yet been determined, according to WBRC, though authorities said Birmingham was known to the Elrods and described him as an “acquaintance.”
Aliceville Mayor Terrence Windham remembered Justin Elrod as a humble man with a strong work ethic.
“He was a very humble guy, and he was the last person that I would think that something like this would happen to,” Windham said. “He survived the military, survived working in the prison, and now, this situation, it just makes it even worse.”
Jason Burns, who worked with Justin Elrod at a federal prison, said he’s still at a loss that his friend was killed.
“About every five minutes,” Burns said. “About every five minutes, I’m having that moment.”
“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,” the sheriff’s office said.
