A former NFL linebacker is now facing one of the most serious legal battles imaginable after a Hamilton County grand jury indicted Darron Lee on June 9, 2026, for the first-degree murder of his girlfriend, Gabriella Carvalho Perpetuo. Prosecutors are also weighing whether to pursue the death penalty, citing what they describe as an unusually complex case involving extensive digital evidence. Perpetuo, 29, was found dead in their Ooltewah, Tennessee home on February 5, 2026, after deputies responded to Lee’s 911 call. A medical examiner ruled her death a homicide caused by multiple blunt force injuries, documenting severe trauma including fractures, stab wounds, and evidence of a violent struggle throughout the residence. Authorities also noted blood in multiple rooms and a range of forensic findings that suggested prolonged violence.

The case has taken an unprecedented turn due to alleged artificial intelligence evidence at its center. Prosecutors say Lee exchanged dozens of messages with ChatGPT in the days surrounding Perpetuo’s death, including discussions about how to handle the situation and avoid police involvement. One message presented in court reportedly asked what to do after finding his fiancée unresponsive, while prosecutors allege follow-up prompts sought guidance on managing the scene and framing his 911 call. They argue this digital trail shows intent to conceal the circumstances of her death. Lee’s defense has challenged the interpretation of both the AI exchanges and forensic testing at the scene, but he remains in custody without bond as he awaits his next court appearance on June 17. If convicted of first-degree murder in Tennessee, he faces a mandatory life sentence, while prosecutors continue deliberating whether to escalate the case to a potential death penalty prosecution.