Former NFL Linebacker Charged with Murder

Former NFL linebacker Daron Lee is facing murder charges linked to the death of his partner. A grand jury in Hamilton County issued the indictment on Tuesday. District Attorney Coty Wamp noted that prosecutors have decided to drop the evidence tampering charge, allowing them to concentrate on the more serious accusations.

The state is pushing for a first-degree murder conviction, which could lead to a life sentence. Wamp mentioned that a decision regarding whether to seek the death penalty will be made in the upcoming weeks.

Lee is accused of killing 29-year-old Gabriela Perpetuo back in February 2026. The coroner has attributed her death to multiple blunt force injuries. An autopsy revealed 12 distinct injuries, including stab wounds and a fractured bone.

Previously, Lee was on probation in both Alachua County, Florida, and Franklin County, Ohio, when he was arrested. Court documents indicate he faced three assault charges involving a man, his mother, and the mother of his child.

Prosecutors claim that Lee consulted ChatGPT for advice on seeking medical assistance without involving the police. He reportedly inquired whether a fall could account for bruising and two stab wounds, as shown in court evidence.

The 31-year-old is currently held at the Hamilton County Jail with no option for bail.

Throughout his career from 2016 to 2020, Lee played in 58 games for the Buffalo Bills, New York Jets, and Kansas City Chiefs. The standout from Ohio State was drafted by the Jets as the 20th overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft.