Former NFL Linebacker Darron Lee Faces First-Degree Murder Charge in Girlfriend’s Death; Prosecutors Seek Death Penalty
Ooltewah, Tennessee – A former first-round NFL draft pick is behind bars without bond after being charged with first-degree murder in the death of his girlfriend at a rented home in this Chattanooga suburb.
Darron Lee, 31, who played linebacker for teams including the New York Jets and Kansas City Chiefs, was arrested February 5, 2026, following a call to authorities reporting CPR in progress at the residence on Snow Cone Way. Deputies from the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office arrived to find 29-year-old Gabriella Carvalho Perpétuo deceased at the scene. An autopsy later determined her cause of death as blunt force trauma, with the manner ruled homicide.
According to testimony from Detective Brian Lockhart during a February 11 bond hearing in Hamilton County Criminal Court, the home showed extensive signs of disturbance. Blood was present on walls, floors, the staircase handrail, and in nearly every room, including the garage where it was also found inside a vehicle. Lockhart described alcohol bottles scattered throughout the property and a shattered microwave with glass debris in the kitchen.
Forensic examination using a specialized light revealed bodily fluid traces glowing blue in the hallway, with visible drag marks leading into the bathroom, suggesting an attempt to move or clean the area. The detective noted these indications pointed to efforts to alter or conceal evidence.
Perpétuo sustained severe injuries, including a broken neck, severe brain trauma, widespread bruising on her torso and limbs, stab wounds to her legs, and human bite marks on her shoulder and thigh, investigators reported. Lee, present when first responders arrived, told deputies he believed Perpétuo had fallen in the shower due to narcolepsy and suffered the injuries accidentally. Authorities stated the physical evidence did not support that account.
Lee faces charges of first-degree murder and tampering with or fabricating evidence. Prosecutors have indicated they will pursue the death penalty if convicted, citing aggravating factors including the alleged nature of the offense.
During the bond hearing, prosecutors highlighted Lee’s prior criminal history to argue he posed a significant risk if released. Records show a 2017 incident at a music festival involving an altercation, a 2023 domestic violence case in Ohio where he allegedly assaulted family members (resolved via plea deal in 2025), and a 2024 Florida arrest for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon after reportedly pointing a gun during a confrontation (guilty plea in June 2025). Lee allegedly violated probation terms by failing to notify his Florida officer of his move to Tennessee.
Hamilton County Criminal Court Judge Tori Smith denied bond following the testimony, ordering Lee held in custody at the Hamilton County Jail. His next court appearance is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on March 9, 2026.
The couple had reportedly been renting the Ooltewah home for about 10 days prior to the incident. Perpétuo, originally from Florida, was remembered by family as a caring individual who had pursued nursing studies. Her mother filed a wrongful death civil lawsuit in Hamilton County Circuit Court on February 13, seeking at least $50 million in compensatory and punitive damages. The complaint alleges Lee intentionally assaulted Perpétuo, causing conscious pain and suffering before her death, and requests coverage of funeral expenses while barring any profit from the case.
Lee’s NFL career began promisingly after he was selected 20th overall by the New York Jets in the 2016 draft out of Ohio State University, where he contributed to the 2014 national championship team. He played four seasons with the Jets before brief stints with the Chiefs (part of their Super Bowl LIV roster), Buffalo Bills, and Las Vegas Raiders. Injuries led to his retirement in 2021.
The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office has released limited additional details as the criminal investigation continues. Family members of Perpétuo have asked for privacy while grieving and pursuing legal avenues.
Authorities encourage anyone with information to contact the sheriff’s office or Crime Stoppers. The case has drawn national attention due to Lee’s professional sports background and the severity of the allegations.
As proceedings move forward, the focus remains on the evidence presented in court and the pursuit of justice for the victim.
