Photo: Joe Robbins / Getty Images Sport / Getty Images
Former NFL linebacker Darron Lee has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder following the death of his girlfriend at her Tennessee residence, according to the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities responded to a home in Ooltewah on February 5 after receiving a report of CPR being administered. When deputies and first responders arrived, they discovered a woman inside the home. Despite life-saving efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene. Her name has not yet been released.
Lee, 31, who was identified as the victim’s boyfriend, was also present at the home. Due to the nature of the victim’s injuries and evidence observed inside the residence, detectives were called in to conduct a criminal investigation.
According to court records obtained by WTVC, the victim suffered extensive traumatic injuries, including severe bruising to her head and torso and what appeared to be a stab wound to her abdomen. An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.
Investigators reported that Lee told authorities he found his girlfriend injured on the couch and believed she may have fallen in the shower. However, detectives said the amount and placement of blood inside the home did not align with that explanation. They also observed injuries on Lee that were consistent with a physical altercation.
The affidavit further stated that portions of the home appeared to have been cleaned and that cleaning supplies were found in locations investigators considered suspicious.
Based on the evidence collected, the victim’s death was classified as a homicide. Lee was taken into custody and charged with first-degree murder and tampering with evidence. Officials said additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues.
Lee played college football at Ohio State and was selected in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft by the New York Jets. He later had brief stints with the Kansas City Chiefs and the Buffalo Bills before leaving the league. ESPN previously reported that Lee was arrested on assault and domestic abuse charges in 2023.