On June 23, 2025, at 11:50 a.m., Monroe County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a report of a stabbing at the Indian Hill Park Trailhead (7025 Pittsford Palmyra Road) in the Town of Perinton. As the victim walked along the trail, he passed another male, who, with no provocation, attacked the victim from behind. The suspect physically assaulted the victim, knocking him to the ground and inflicting multiple stab wounds with a hunting knife.
Upon arrival, deputies located the victim and began establishing a perimeter while emergency medical services rendered aid to the victim. Simultaneously, Perinton Park Security observed the suspect driving east on Pittsford Palmyra Road before turning into Egypt Park. Deputies responded to the park and successfully took the suspect into custody. The victim was transported to a local hospital in stable condition with non-life-threatening injuries.
MCSO evidence technicians processed the crime scene, while investigators interviewed witnesses under the direction of the Major Crimes Unit.
Derrick A. Van Epps, 30, of Palmyra is charged with:
- Attempted Murder in the Second Degree (Class A-II-Felony)
- Assault in the Second Degree (Class D-Felony) (2 Counts)
Van Epps was Arraigned in CAP Court and remanded to the Monroe County Jail on $50,000 cash, or $150,000 bond. Van Epps acted alone and there are no outstanding suspects.
We would like to thank the Perinton Park Security for their assistance in locating Van Epps and their commitment to keeping our community safe.