Ex-Jets First-Round Pick Darron Lee Arrested for Girlfriend's Murder

Lee reportedly asked ChatGPT for advice before Gabriella Perpetuo's death

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Former NFL linebacker Darron Lee, a first-round pick by the New York Jets in 2016, has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder in the death of his girlfriend, Gabriella Perpetuo. Prosecutors claim Lee asked the AI chatbot ChatGPT for advice on how to deal with an 'unresponsive' person a day before Perpetuo's body was found, which contradicts Lee's initial claim that she died from a fall in the shower.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing role of AI and digital evidence in criminal investigations, as well as the troubling issue of domestic violence among professional athletes. Lee's alleged actions and the brutality of Perpetuo's death have shocked the sports world and raised questions about accountability for players with a history of off-field issues.

The details

According to prosecutors, Lee messaged ChatGPT asking what to do if his fiancée 'wasn't waking up or responding,' which contradicts his claim that Perpetuo died from a fall. Investigators found blood throughout the house and evidence that Perpetuo had stab wounds, black eyes, and bite marks, suggesting a violent altercation. Lee, who played for the Jets, Chiefs, Bills, and Raiders over his 5-year NFL career, is now facing a potential death penalty charge for Perpetuo's murder.

  • On February 1, 2026, Gabriella Perpetuo's body was found in the home she shared with Darron Lee.
  • A day prior, on January 31, 2026, Lee reportedly messaged ChatGPT asking for advice on dealing with an 'unresponsive' person.

The players

Darron Lee

A former first-round draft pick by the New York Jets in 2016 who played 5 seasons in the NFL with the Jets, Chiefs, Bills, and Raiders. He has now been arrested and charged with first-degree murder in the death of his girlfriend, Gabriella Perpetuo.

Gabriella Perpetuo

Lee's girlfriend whose body was found in their shared home. Prosecutors claim she died from violent injuries, contradicting Lee's initial claim that she died from a fall in the shower.

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What’s next

Lee is eligible for the death penalty, though it's unclear if prosecutors will seek capital punishment. A judge will decide on whether to grant Lee bail at a hearing on Tuesday.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the need for greater accountability and support systems to address domestic violence issues, especially among professional athletes who may have a history of off-field problems. The use of AI and digital evidence in criminal investigations is also an emerging area that will likely continue to play a growing role in future cases.