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A former New York Jets linebacker who was found with scratches on his face and hands is in police custody in connection with the death of his girlfriend.
On Thursday, February 5, deputies with the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office received a call around 1:30 p.m. that “life-saving measures” were being taken at a home in Ooltewah, Tennessee. Despite their efforts, the woman, whose name, description and age have not been released, was pronounced dead at the scene. The victim was later found to have stab wounds to his abdomen, several bruises on his body and significant bite marks on his shoulder.
While investigating her death, police interviewed the victim’s boyfriend. Darren Leehe claimed he found his girlfriend unconscious. He speculated she may have fallen and hit her head while taking a shower, according to police. However, authorities said his account appeared inconsistent with “alarming conditions” at the home, including broken glass in the kitchen and blood on the floor, walls and Lee’s cell phone case. He also allegedly had scratch-like injuries on his hands, face and chest, indicating a physical struggle.
Detectives’ preliminary findings indicate the woman’s death was a homicide.
Lee, 31, was quickly considered a suspect and arrested the same day. He was charged with first-degree murder. He was also charged with tampering with evidence for allegedly trying to remove blood from the scene, according to a police affidavit. Local 3 News. He could still face additional charges as the investigation continues.
Prior to his arrest, Lee was a college football star who went on to play for the New York Jets after being selected in the 2016 NFL Draft. He stayed with the team for about two to three years before being traded to the Kansas City Chiefs in 2019. The next year, he signed with the Buffalo Bills. During his professional football career, he was suspended at least twice for alleged use of performance-enhancing drugs or other unspecified substance abuse-related violations.
In 2023, Li was arrested on suspicion of domestic violence. According to an arrest report seen by police. ABC Affiliated News 9The 31-year-old man pushed a woman against a wall, “threw her to the ground and struck her in the face and head eight to nine times with his closed fists.”
The Kansas City Chiefs are “aware” of domestic violence allegations made by wide receiver Rashe Rice’s ex-girlfriend via social media. “The club is aware of the allegations made on social media and is in communication with the NFL. We have no further comment at this time,” the team said in a statement to ESPN (…)
Lee is also accused of throwing a mobile phone at another woman in a separate incident, allegedly hitting her in the head and “causing her ears to bleed.” He also “grabbed her by the neck while punching the pillow next to her head, leaving red marks on her neck,” the report said.
Lee is being held without bail at the Hamilton County Jail. His next court date is scheduled for Wednesday, February 11.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please call National Domestic Violence Hotline For confidential support, please call 1-800-799-7233.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, please contact Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
