Vital Statistics at Time of Disappearance
Missing Since: March 21, 2007 from Wichita, Kansas Classification: Endangered Missing Age: 36 years old Height and Weight: 5'8, 315 pounds Distinguishing Characteristics: African-American male. Black hair, brown eyes.
Details of Disappearance
Epps was last seen in Wichita, Kansas on March 21, 2007. He left to see a friend and never returned home. At the time of his disappearance, he drove a white 1996 Chevrolet Tahoe with a U-Haul bumper sticker, a tailgate, black rims, and large tires. He last used his cellular phone at 5:55 p.m. on the day he went missing. Epps has never been heard from again. On March 23, his vehicle turned up at the Greenmill Restaurant at Kellog and Rock Road, with his cellular phone locked inside.In July 2007, authorities charged Jeffrey Salas, also known as Jeffrey Hopper, with Epps's murder. Investigators stated Salas and Epps participated in criminal activity together and Salas killed him over an $18,000 drug debt. A small amount of Epps's blood was found in a sport utility vehicle (SUV) linked to Salas. At his trial in the spring of 2009, Salas's defense argued there was no evidence Epps was deceased. He was acquitted of all charges in April 2009.
Epps left behind two young sons whom he shared a close bond with and saw daily. His family stated he did not use illicit drugs or drink alcohol. His body has never been found, but authorities suspect foul play in his case due to the circumstances involved.
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Above: Jeffrey Salas, circa 2009
Investigating Agency
Source Information
Updated 2 times since October 12, 2004.
Last updated April 28, 2009; picture added, details of disappearance updated.
If you have any information concerning this case, please contact:
Wichita Police Department
316-268-4181
Someone is Missing
KSN
The Wichita Eagle
KWCH 12
Nebraska.tv