Wild video shows intruder punching, knocking over seniors at Tempe community center

PHOENIX – The Tempe Police Department released video of an intruder attacking staff and members at a local senior center this week.

Police said six seniors were hurt during the incident at the Escalante Multi-Generational Center, at least one of whom was hospitalized with injuries of unknown severity.

The Tempe Police Department released wild video of an attack on seniors at the Escalante Multi-Generational Center.

Derek Kirven was arrested afterward and booked into jail for multiple offenses, including felony counts of aggravated assault and criminal damage.

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The melee occurred around 11:30 a.m. Wednesday inside the senior room of the recreation center at 2150 E. Orange St.

Police said Derek Kirven was confronted twice about not being a member before he turned violent.

What does video of attack on seniors in Tempe show?

The surveillance footage starts with a staff member talking to a man identified by police as Kirven. He can be seen throwing a punch and shoving the staff member before going on a rampage, assaulting multiple men and women throughout the room.

At one point, he knocks a woman out of a wheelchair-like device, leaving her lying facedown on the floor.

Several people are seen throwing chairs at Kirven in self-defense, and he picks up at least one and throws it. The video ends after Kirven walks out of camera range.

Police said that on-site security responded and detained Kirven until police arrived and took him into custody.

Kirven was booked into jail for multiple offenses, including felony counts of aggravated assault and criminal damage.

The investigation is ongoing.

This is an updated version of a story originally published on Jan. 8, 2026.

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