PULASKI COUNTY, Ark. – As Arkansas State Police enter the third day of their search for a suspect in a brutal double homicide at Devil’s Den State Park, hikers across the state are continuing their outdoor activities, with a new sense of awareness.
On Saturday, a couple was fatally stabbed while hiking with their two school-aged daughters at the popular northwest Arkansas destination. The children are reportedly safe and in the custody of relatives. The incident has sparked concerns among hikers and nature lovers across the state, though many are refusing to let fear stop them from enjoying the outdoors.
Manhunt continues for Devil’s Den double homicide suspect, what to know
One such visitor is Stanley Perry, who hiked Pinnacle Mountain, located roughly 180 miles from Devil’s Den, on Monday with his wife and four daughters.
“You’re going there to soak up nature because you’ve been stuck in the city life for so long,” Perry said. “And all of a sudden you’re back into, like, emergency mode.”
While Perry said the news was disheartening, he emphasized the importance of vigilance, especially when hiking with children.
“If I’m with my kids and someone’s approaching me, I’m going to be facing them the whole time,” he said.
The tragedy at Devil’s Den is serving as a stark reminder to hikers that dangers on the trail aren’t limited to wildlife or rough terrain.
“You might be prepared for a wolf or a coyote to scratch you or bite you, but you’re not expecting somebody to pop out of the woods and attack you,” Perry added.
Despite the chilling nature of the crime, many families, including Perry’s, say they won’t let fear control their lives.
“Bad things happen all the time,” he said. “We can’t let the industrial revolution and the internet give you so much information so fast that it deters you from your actual life.”
911 call shows police discover Devil’s Den double homicide
Arkansas State Police are still searching for the suspect, described as a white male of medium build. He was last seen wearing a long-sleeve shirt with the sleeves rolled up, dark pants, a ball cap, and sunglasses. Investigators say all available resources are being used to locate the man responsible and bring him to justice.
Meanwhile, the bodies of the victims have been transported to the Arkansas State Crime Lab to determine the exact cause of death.
“Stay alert, stay safe — and if you’re going to be hiking, hike. Have a good time,” Perry said.
As the investigation continues, many Arkansans remain cautious but undeterred, choosing not to let fear rob them of their connection to nature.
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