Vols Wide Receiver Von Pearson Named Suspect in Rape Investigation

A mere day before the Orange and White spring game begins, the Vols were dealt another blow to the program Friday afternoon. Senior wide receiver Von Pearson was named as a suspect in a rape investigation Friday afternoon, marking the second such investigation into the Tennessee football team in less than half a year.

Pearson, who has played one season for the Vols, has not been arrested or charged yet. The investigation is "currently ongoing" according to the Knoxville Police Department.

According to a release from the KPD, the alleged incident reportedly occurred at the University Walk Apartments, which are not far from UT's campus.

According to Dustin Dopirak of the Knoxville News Sentinel, two other Vols have been named as witnesses in the incident.

Don Jacobs of the KNS obtained a more detailed incident report from the police. Alton "Pig" Howard and Dimarya Mixon listed as witnesses.

— Dustin Dopirak (@TennesseeBeat) April 24, 2015

Pearson had 38 receptions for 393 yards and 5 touchdowns in 11 games in his first season with the Vols after transferring from junior college.

In November, A.J. Johnson and Michael Williams were suspended after alleged rape and sexual assault charges were brought out against them. Both players were indicted by a grand jury on two charges of rape in February and are no longer part of the team.

We will have more details as they come along.