Former Ohio State Linebacker Charged in Girlfriend's Murder

Darron Lee faces first-degree murder and tampering with evidence charges in Tennessee death

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The family of Gabriella Perpetuo, a 29-year-old woman who was killed in Tennessee, has filed a $50 million wrongful death lawsuit against former Ohio State football player Darron Lee. Lee, 41, is criminally charged with first-degree murder and tampering with evidence in connection with Perpetuo's death on February 5th. Prosecutors say the charges Lee faces are eligible for the death penalty, though no decision has been made on whether to pursue it.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tragic consequences of domestic violence and the need for accountability, even for high-profile athletes. It also raises questions about Lee's past history of alleged domestic incidents and whether more could have been done to prevent this tragedy.

The details

According to the lawsuit, Perpetuo suffered severe injuries including a broken neck, multiple stab wounds, head trauma, and a brain injury prior to her death. A detective testified that the physical evidence at the home did not match Lee's initial claim that Perpetuo had fallen in the shower. The lawsuit alleges Perpetuo died as a result of a "violent physical struggle and intentional assault" by Lee.

  • Gabriella Perpetuo died on February 5, 2026 in Hamilton County, Tennessee.
  • Darron Lee was charged with first-degree murder and tampering with evidence on February 6, 2026.
  • The $50 million wrongful death lawsuit was filed by Perpetuo's family on February 12, 2026.
  • Lee's next court date is scheduled for March 9, 2026.

The players

Gabriella Perpetuo

A 29-year-old woman who was killed in Tennessee, and the girlfriend of Darron Lee.

Darron Lee

A 41-year-old former Ohio State football player who is criminally charged with first-degree murder and tampering with evidence in connection with Perpetuo's death.

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What they’re saying

“The physical evidence at the home where Perpetuo was found did not match Lee's initial story - that Perpetuo had fallen in the shower.”

— Hamilton County Sheriff's Detective (The Dispatch)

What’s next

The judge will decide on March 9 whether to allow Lee out on bail as he awaits trial.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the need for greater accountability and support systems to prevent domestic violence, even among high-profile individuals. It also raises questions about whether more could have been done to intervene and protect Perpetuo given Lee's prior history of alleged domestic incidents.