Ex-Ohio State LB Darron Lee Held Without Bond in Murder Case

Lee faces charges of first-degree murder and tampering with evidence in the death of his girlfriend Gabriella Perpetuo.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Former Ohio State linebacker and first-round NFL draft pick Darron Lee will be held without bond on charges that he killed his girlfriend, Gabriella Perpetuo. Perpetuo was found with a broken neck, severe brain injury, stab wounds, and a bite mark, and Lee allegedly attempted to clean up the crime scene.

Why it matters

This case involves a high-profile former college football player accused of a violent crime, raising questions about athlete behavior, domestic violence, and the challenges of transitioning from college to professional sports.

The details

According to the affidavit, deputies found blood "in just about every room but one" at the Ooltewah, Tennessee home where Perpetuo's body was discovered. Lee allegedly tried to clean up the crime scene using Clorox wipes and other cleaning supplies. The medical examiner determined Perpetuo's cause of death was blunt force trauma and homicide.

  • On February 5, deputies responded to a call of CPR being performed on someone in distress at the Ooltewah home.
  • On February 7, Lee was arrested and charged with first-degree murder and tampering with evidence.
  • On February 10, Lee had his arraignment hearing.
  • A preliminary hearing is set for March 9 at 1:30 p.m.

The players

Darron Lee

A former Ohio State linebacker and first-round NFL draft pick by the New York Jets in 2016, who last played for the Buffalo Bills in 2020 before being charged with first-degree murder and tampering with evidence in the death of his girlfriend.

Gabriella Perpetuo

Lee's girlfriend, who was found dead at the Ooltewah, Tennessee home with a broken neck, severe brain injury, stab wounds, and a bite mark.

Brian Lockhart

A Hamilton County detective who provided details about the crime scene and investigation to Local 3 News.

Stephen Cogswell

The Hamilton County medical examiner who determined Perpetuo's cause of death was blunt force trauma and homicide.

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What they’re saying

“When Lee was confronted at the scene, he had claimed Perpetuo must have fallen in the shower.”

— Brian Lockhart, Hamilton County detective (Local 3 News)

What’s next

A preliminary hearing for Darron Lee is set for March 9 at 1:30 p.m., where a judge will determine if there is enough evidence to proceed with the first-degree murder and tampering with evidence charges.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the need for greater awareness and prevention of domestic violence, especially among high-profile athletes who may face unique pressures and challenges transitioning from college to professional sports.