Authorities in Arkansas are actively pursuing a suspect in the tragic double homicide of a couple who were hiking with their two young daughters at Devil’s Den State Park over the weekend. According to a news release from the Arkansas State Police, they were alerted to the incident on Saturday afternoon, which has shocked the local community.
The victims have been identified as Clinton David Brink, aged 43, and Cristen Amanda Brink, aged 41. While specific details regarding the circumstances of their deaths have not been disclosed, authorities have confirmed that they were “attacked” during their family outing. Their daughters, aged 7 and 9, thankfully were not harmed and are currently safe with relatives.
The Brink family, who had recently relocated to the area, was enjoying a hike in the picturesque 2,500-acre Devil’s Den State Park located in Washington County, which is known for its rugged terrain and dense vegetation. The park, which is also in proximity to the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, is notorious for its limited cellphone service, making it difficult for visitors to communicate in emergencies.
In light of this tragic event, all hiking trails in the park have been closed “until further notice,” as stated on the park’s official website this past Monday. The authorities discovered the bodies of the victims on a walking trail within the park, prompting a thorough investigation.
Authorities have described the suspect as a White male of medium build, wearing a long-sleeved shirt with the sleeves rolled up, dark pants, a dark ball cap, sunglasses, fingerless gloves, and carrying a black backpack. He was seen driving away from the park in a black, four-door sedan, which may have been a Mazda with its license plate obscured by electrical or duct tape.
In an effort to gather more information, investigators are urging anyone who visited Devil’s Den State Park on Saturday or residents from the surrounding areas to review any photos, videos, or GoPro footage that might feature the suspect. Col. Mike Hagar of the Arkansas State Police emphasized that his agency is committed to utilizing all available resources to apprehend the suspect and ensure that justice is served.
In response to the heartbreaking news, Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders expressed her condolences via a post on X, stating, “We are heartbroken by today’s horrific news from Devil’s Den State Park. We are praying for the family and friends of the victims, and know that law enforcement will not rest until the perpetrator is brought to justice.”
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of crime, even in serene locations like state parks. The community remains on alert as authorities continue their search for answers and justice for the Brink family.
