Ex-NFL linebacker Darron Lee indicted for murder of girlfriend

Former NFL linebacker, Darron Lee, has been indicted on a first-degree murder charge over the death of his girlfriend, Gabriella Perpetuo.

Lee, who previously played for the New York Jets, Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills, is accused of killing the 29-year-old woman in February.

According to reports, a Hamilton County grand jury returned the indictment on Tuesday, June 9, while prosecutors dismissed a tampering with evidence charge in order to focus on the murder case.

Hamilton County District Attorney, Coty Wamp, confirmed the development, saying the former NFL player remains in custody without bond.

Perpetuo was found dead in her home in Ooltewah, Tennessee, in February.

A medical examiner reportedly said she died from multiple blunt force injuries. She was also said to have suffered several injuries, including hematomas, bone fractures and stab wounds.

Lee was arrested on February 6 on a murder charge.

Investigators also alleged that he had searched ChatGPT for information on how to get medical help without alerting authorities. He was further accused of asking whether a fall could cause bruising around the eyes and wounds that appeared like stab injuries.

The former linebacker now faces a possible life sentence or the death penalty if convicted.

The issue of whether prosecutors will seek the death penalty is expected to be discussed in court in the coming weeks.

Lee is scheduled to appear in court on June 17.

Before the latest case, Lee had faced previous legal troubles.

In April 2023, he was arrested over allegations that he assaulted his mother, his then-girlfriend, Lindsey McGlone, and their two-year-old son.

He was reportedly on probation in Franklin County, Ohio, over the assault allegations. He was also said to be on probation in Alachua County, Florida, in connection with another assault case.

As of the time of filing this report, Lee remains in the Hamilton County Jail without bond.