Summary
- The Darron Lee arrest involves allegations of first degree murder and evidence tampering.
- Investigators say preliminary findings classify the death as a homicide.
- The case renews scrutiny of post career conduct among professional athletes.
Former NFL linebacker Darron Lee was arrested Thursday and charged with first degree murder in Tennessee after authorities said his girlfriend was killed near Ooltewah Elementary School.
The Darron Lee arrest has drawn attention because of his status as a first round NFL draft pick.
Hamilton County Sheriff Austin Garrett said deputies were dispatched to the home about two and a half hours outside Nashville following a report of CPR in progress.
First responders attempted lifesaving measures on a female victim, but she died. Garrett said Lee, 31, was taken into custody and charged with first degree murder and tampering with evidence.
Jail records show he is being held without bond with a court date set for Wednesday. Lee was drafted by the New York Jets in 2016 after winning a national championship at Ohio State and later played for the Chiefs, Bills and Raiders before leaving the league in 2021.
Jennifer Rodgers, a former federal prosecutor and law professor at Columbia University, said first-degree murder charges indicate prosecutors believe intent can be proven.
Hamilton County District Attorney Coty Wamp said her office will pursue the case based on evidence. Authorities said more details are expected during court proceedings.
The Darron Lee arrest shows how criminal allegations involving athletes can carry consequences nationwide attention.
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