Hot Springs police have arrested 18-year-old Cooper Riley Camferdam of Benton on a charge of first-degree battery following the incident, which occurred shortly before midnight on January 17 at the Circle K on Malvern Avenue. Officers responded to reports of a large fight in the parking lot, which reportedly stemmed from a nearby party.
When police arrived, they found 20-year-old Noah Epperson suffering from severe injuries. He was rushed to a local hospital, where doctors determined he had sustained a fractured skull and bleeding on both sides of his brain. Epperson remains in intensive care as he continues to recover.
Investigators identified Camferdam as the main suspect after receiving multiple public tips and reviewing videos circulating online. The footage allegedly shows Camferdam striking Epperson with a belt and taking part in the assault. A warrant was issued, and Camferdam was taken into custody on January 19 with assistance from the Benton Police Department before being booked into the Garland County Detention Center.
Under Arkansas law, first-degree battery is classified as a Class Y felony, carrying a potential sentence of 10 to 40 years or even life in prison.
Authorities have indicated that several individuals may have been involved in the attack, and the investigation remains ongoing. Police have also cautioned that people who recorded the incident without attempting to help could potentially face charges for failing to render aid, though no such charges have been filed at this time.
As the case unfolds, friends and supporters have launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover medical expenses and provide financial assistance to Epperson’s family during his recovery.
