A husband and wife were killed Saturday, July 26, while hiking with their two young daughters at Devil’s Den State Park in Washington County, according to Arkansas State Police. The girls, ages 7 and 9, were not injured and are now safe with family members.
Who were the victims?
The victims have been identified as Clinton David Brink, 43, and Cristen Amanda Brink, 41. The couple recently moved to Prairie Grove from out of state. Authorities say they were hiking when the attack occurred.
When did the attack happen?
About 2:40 p.m. Saturday, the Arkansas State Police received a call reporting a double homicide on a walking trail inside the state park. Investigators from ASP’s Criminal Investigation Division are handling the case as a suspected double homicide.
What do we know about the suspect?
As of Sunday, July 27, the Arkansas State Police updated the suspect description based on new information:
White male
Medium build
Wearing a long-sleeved shirt (sleeves rolled up), dark pants, dark ballcap and sunglasses
Fingerless gloves and a black backpack
Last seen driving a black, four-door sedan, possibly a Mazda
The license plate may have been obscured with electrical or duct tape
He reportedly was seen driving toward a park exit. The car may have traveled on State Highway 170 or State Highway 220 near the park.
What is law enforcement asking from the public?
Investigators are asking anyone who visited Devil’s Den State Park on Saturday to check their cellphone photos, videos or GoPro footage for potential images of the suspect. They also are requesting that local residents review security and game camera footage.
Anyone with information or media files should contact ASP Troop L at (479) 751-6663. Authorities caution against posting footage online, as it may interfere with the investigation.
Where is the investigation happening?
The area of the park where the attack occurred remains closed off. Devil’s Den is known for its rugged terrain, thick vegetation and lack of cellphone service, which complicates both communication and the search effort.
Where is Devil’s Den State Park?
Devil’s Den State Park is in northwest Arkansas in Washington County, near the town of West Fork. The park is situated in the Boston Mountains of the Ozark National Forest, a heavily wooded area renowned for its hiking, camping and scenic views.
It is approximately 30 miles south of Fayetteville and about 60 miles northeast of Fort Smith.
What is being done to ensure safety in Arkansas state parks?
In a statement, Shea Lewis, Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, emphasized that safety remains a top priority:
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic events that occurred at Devil’s Den State Park. Our hearts are with the victims’ loved ones during this incredibly difficult time… Our Park Rangers are fully commissioned law enforcement officers, and they are actively engaged in ensuring the safety and security of our park guests.”
Lewis added that law enforcement presence has been increased across Arkansas state parks.
What’s next?
The investigation remains active and ongoing. Arkansas State Police are working with local, state and federal law enforcement partners to locate and arrest the suspect.
“We are using all available resources to apprehend this suspect and bring him to justice,” said ASP Col. Mike Hagar.
This article originally appeared on Fort Smith Times Record: Arkansas State Police investigate double homicide at Devil’s Den State Park
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