Editor’s Note: The following story contains details of domestic abuse
Allegations from 2025 came to light shortly after midnight on July 26th against former Ferris football defensive lineman Tyrone Fowler.
These allegations were brought to the public’s attention by Fowler’s ex-girlfriend, Alesha Vandeberge. Vandeberge posted the story about the alleged abuse to the Facebook group “Big Rapids informed.”
Vandeberge described the various allegations of abuse, such as emotional abuse, verbal abuse, manipulation and physical abuse.
The first came on September 29, 2025, in Big Rapids at 113 Chestnut Street. When 911 was called as Vandeberge, as stated in a police report acquired by the Ferris State Torch via Freedom of Information Act request.
“Vandeberge told Daniel Mitchell (a neighbor) that Fowler had pushed her down the stairs, and she asked him to call police.”
“Fowler then stated that Vandeberge was trying to ‘manhandle’ him, and that “Vandeberge was trying to get aggressive with Fowler, like he’s not bigger than her, and that Vandeberge was trying to rage-bait him.”
According to the report, Fowler did not have any visible injuries, while Vandeberge complained of pain on her lower back from being thrown to the ground by Fowler, and falling down the stairs.
Officers then spoke to Vandeberge, who stated in the report.
Vandeberge and Fowler argued until Fowler opened the door, which then Vandeberge stated that he was talking to another girl. Vandeberge then told officers that they both began to put hands on each other.
Then, according to the report, “Vandeberge stated that Fowler proceeded to pick her up and throw her on the ground. Vandeberge stated that Fowler was pushing her, telling her to get out. Once at the steps near the living room, Fowler pushed Vandeberge, causing her to fall down the steps to the landing near the front door.”
Fowler was then arrested and placed in custody for Domestic Assault and Conditional Release Violation by the Big Rapids Department of Public Safety
When asked about why she brought her story to the public eye, Vandeberge wanted to help others who could be in the same situation.
“I hope I am able to spread awareness of this situation so it does not happen to other people, and for him to take accountability,” Vandeberge said. “Hopefully other people will have the courage to speak up about their situation as well.”
Fowler was a part of the Ferris football team from 2024-2025, being a part of both national championship winning teams. Fowler played in 15 games in 2024 and only five games in 2025, totaling 69 tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss, six sacks, and one fumble recovery before graduating this past year.
Ferris State athletics and Tyrone Fowler did not respond to the Torch’s request for comment.