A man and woman were killed Saturday while hiking with their two young daughters at Devil’s Den State Park in Washington County, according to Arkansas State Police.
The victims, identified as Clinton David Brink, 43, and Cristen Amanda Brink, 41, were found dead on a walking trail around 2:40 p.m. on July 26. The couple had recently moved to Prairie Grove. Their daughters, ages 7 and 9, were not injured and are safe with family members, officials said.
The Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division is leading the homicide investigation and has released an updated description of the suspect. Authorities said he is an unknown white male of medium build, wearing dark pants, a long-sleeved shirt with the sleeves rolled up, a dark ballcap, sunglasses, and fingerless gloves. He was carrying a black backpack and was last seen driving toward a park exit in a black four-door sedan, possibly a Mazda. The vehicle’s license plate was reportedly covered with electrical or duct tape.
The suspect may have been traveling on State Highway 170 or State Highway 220 near the park. Investigators are asking visitors who were at the park on Saturday to review cellphone, GoPro, or security footage for any images of the suspect or his vehicle. Nearby residents with access to game or security cameras are also urged to contact law enforcement.
The section of the park where the incident occurred remains closed, and ASP has secured the area. The park’s remote terrain and lack of cellphone service have added to the complexity of the investigation.
ASP Troop L can be reached at (479) 751-6663. Authorities request that the public refrain from sharing potential evidence on social media to avoid compromising the investigation.
Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism Secretary Shea Lewis issued a statement expressing condolences to the victims’ family and emphasized the department’s commitment to safety and cooperation with law enforcement. Additional patrols have been added across state parks.
The investigation remains ongoing. ASP is working with local, state, and federal agencies to locate and apprehend the suspect.
“We are using all available resources to apprehend this suspect and bring him to justice,” said ASP Col. Mike Hagar.
WebReadyTM Powered by WireReady® NSI