A judge has set bond at $500,000 for an 18-year-old Benton man accused of carrying out a violent assault that left a 20-year-old victim with life-threatening injuries, drawing widespread attention after video of the incident circulated online.
Cooper Camferdam was formally charged with first-degree battery, a Class Y felony, during a court appearance earlier this week. The bond decision was made Tuesday following his arrest in connection with the assault, which occurred late Saturday night at a Circle K gas station on Malvern Avenue in Hot Springs.
According to the Hot Springs Police Department, the altercation began earlier in the evening at a county party before escalating and continuing at the gas station. Investigators say multiple individuals were involved, though Camferdam is accused of delivering the blow that caused the most serious injuries. Video footage shared on social media appears to show Camferdam striking 20-year-old Noah Epperson, knocking him unconscious.
Epperson was rushed to a nearby hospital and later transferred to intensive care due to the severity of his injuries. Medical officials reported that he suffered a fractured skull, a ruptured eardrum, and bleeding on the brain. As of the latest update, Epperson remains hospitalized while doctors continue to monitor his condition.
Police say the viral video has played a significant role in the investigation, helping authorities identify suspects and piece together the sequence of events. The footage sparked public outrage and renewed discussion about violence among young adults and the role of social media in spreading graphic content.
Camferdam turned himself in to authorities on Monday with assistance from the Benton Police Department. He was then transported to Garland County, where he was booked into jail ahead of his bond hearing. Reporter Kathryn Thornberry confirmed via social media that Camferdam’s bond was officially set at $500,000 during a court appearance on Wednesday.
First-degree battery is among the most serious criminal charges under Arkansas law and carries the potential for lengthy prison sentences if a conviction is secured. Prosecutors noted the severity of the victim’s injuries and the apparent intent shown in the assault as factors contributing to the high bond amount.
Hot Springs police say the investigation remains ongoing and that additional arrests may be made as detectives continue reviewing evidence and interviewing witnesses. Authorities have urged anyone with information related to the incident to come forward.
As the case proceeds through the court system, it continues to attract significant public attention, fueled by the graphic nature of the video and concerns over escalating violence. Court officials have not yet announced a preliminary hearing date, and Camferdam remains in custody unless bond conditions are met.
