Horrific Injuries of Darron Lee’s Girlfriend Revealed as Ex-NFL Player Faces Murder Charges

The girlfriend of former NFL player Darron Lee, who is now charged with murder, suffered severe injuries, investigators say.

Gabriella Perpetuo was found dead when police responded to a report of CPR being performed at a residence in Ooltewah, Tennessee, on Thursday, Feb. 5, according to the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office. Lee, a former NFL linebacker, was arrested at the scene and charged with murder. The sheriff’s office later identified Perpetuo as the victim.

Investigators have since provided additional details about her injuries. Detective Brian Lockhart told Local 3 that Perpetuo was found with a broken neck and a bite mark on her thigh. He also said she suffered a severe brain injury and had been stabbed multiple times.

Lockhart said the home showed signs of violence, including a smashed microwave and bloodied drag marks across the floor. He said blood was found in nearly every room and on the stair banister, and that alcohol bottles were scattered around the residence. Cleaning supplies were also found, and authorities alleged in an affidavit that Lee attempted to clean the scene.

Local 3 reported that Lee, who previously played for the New York Jets and the Kansas City Chiefs, said during his arraignment that Perpetuo may have fallen in the shower.

Lee has been charged with first-degree murder and tampering with evidence, according to online court records, and authorities have said additional charges are possible. Court records did not indicate whether he has retained an attorney, and it is not clear if he has entered pleas. He is scheduled to appear in court on March 9.