GoFundMe campaign launched by relatives of Gabriella Perpetuo has brought her name into public view as the woman found dead last week in an Ooltewah home, where former NFL linebacker Darron Lee faces charges of first-degree murder and tampering with evidence.
The campaign, organized by Perpetuo’s cousin Lyla (under the name Tati A) on behalf of the Perpetuo family in Deerfield Beach, Florida, has raised over $50,000 toward a $100,000 goal from more than 690 donors as of Sunday. It describes Perpetuo as a victim of domestic violence and abuse who was residing in Tennessee at the time of her death.
“She was loved by so many and loved those around her with her whole heart,” the page states. Family members portray her as a warm, compassionate person with a gentle spirit and quiet resilience. Tributes shared in online memorials and family statements describe her as vibrant, kind, and deeply caring — someone who listened without judgment, offered unwavering support, and maintained close family bonds. Perpetuo, 29, was remembered for her loyalty, sincerity, and ability to brighten the lives of those around her.
Her parents, Monique and Nilson Perpetuo, have traveled to Tennessee to arrange for her body to be returned to Florida for funeral services and final goodbyes. The fundraiser covers travel expenses, funeral costs, and attorney fees for a planned civil case related to the incident. “The traveling and funeral expenses is something no family should need to worry about in these times,” the description reads. “We’d like to help take some weight off their shoulders in any way possible.”
Hamilton County sheriff’s deputies responded Thursday to a residence on Snow Cone Way after a report of CPR in progress. First responders found a female victim inside the home and attempted life-saving measures, but she succumbed to her injuries. An affidavit details severe trauma: a suspected stab wound to the abdomen, severe bruising to her head and eyes, bruises on her arms and torso, and what appeared to be a human bite mark on her shoulder.
Lee, 31, was at the scene and identified as the victim’s boyfriend. He told deputies he found her unconscious on the couch and believed she may have fallen in the shower. Investigators noted inconsistencies, including blood spatter on walls and flooring in multiple areas, broken glass in the kitchen, and signs that blood had been cleaned up in parts of the home, with cleaning supplies left in unusual places. Lee sustained injuries consistent with a physical struggle, including wounds to his face, hands, and chest. Authorities also reported finding alcohol, narcotics, and a firearm in the residence.
Lee, a former first-round draft pick by the New York Jets in 2016 after starring at Ohio State, was taken into custody without bond. The case remains under investigation, with an autopsy pending and Lee’s next court appearance scheduled for Feb. 11.
Mainstream news outlets have not officially named the victim, citing ongoing family notifications, but the GoFundMe and family references align with details from the incident. Perpetuo’s relatives emphasize her legacy beyond the tragedy, calling for support amid grief and highlighting the broader issue of domestic violence.
Flip the pages for photos of Gabriella Perpetuo, may she rest in peace.
