New Photo Released as Police Hunt Suspect in Arkansas Hiking Murders
DEVIL’S DEN STATE PARK, AR – July 30, 2025 – Arkansas State Police have released a photo of a man they are calling a “person of interest” in the shocking double homicide of a married couple hiking with their young daughters in Devil’s Den State Park over the weekend. Authorities are urging the public to help identify the man, who was seen in the park on Saturday, July 26.
The victims, Clinton David Brink, 43, and Cristen Amanda Brink, 41, were found dead on the Devil’s Den Trail, a 2.4 km loop in the Ozark Mountains known for its dense vegetation and scenic beauty. Their daughters, ages 7 and 9, were found unharmed and are now safe with relatives.
Authorities have not released specific details on the cause of death but confirmed the incident is being investigated as a double homicide. Scanner audio from first responders suggested one of the victims may have been stabbed. Police believe the suspect sustained an injury during the attack but have not elaborated.
According to police, the couple’s daughters were discovered at the park’s visitor center, telling staff their parents had been assaulted and were missing. First responders searching the area reported hearing cries for help before locating the bodies on the lower portion of Devil’s Den Trail.
Police have released a detailed description of the man they are seeking: a white male of medium build, last seen wearing rolled-up long-sleeved shirt, dark pants, a dark baseball cap, sunglasses, fingerless gloves, and carrying a black backpack. He was spotted driving a black four-door sedan, possibly a Mazda, with the license plate obscured by electrical or duct tape. The vehicle was last seen heading toward a park exit, potentially using State Highway 170 or Highway 220.
The Brinks had recently moved to Prairie Grove, a quiet town near the Oklahoma border. In a statement released Monday, their family asked for privacy and pleaded for public cooperation:
“Clinton and Cristen died heroes, protecting their little girls. They deserve justice. If you know anything, please contact authorities immediately.”
Devil’s Den State Park, covering over 1,000 hectares of rugged terrain, has been closed to the public during the ongoing investigation. Officials said the area where the attack occurred has no cellphone service, complicating both communication and rescue efforts.
Authorities are urging park visitors from July 26 to review any photos or videos they took that might show the suspect. Local residents are also being asked to check security and wildlife cameras for possible sightings of the vehicle.
Police have asked the public not to share any potential evidence online to avoid compromising the investigation. Instead, individuals should preserve original files and submit them directly to Arkansas State Police (ASP).
Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders called the murders “horrific” and said the state is coordinating closely with law enforcement agencies. In response to the incident, the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism announced an increase in law enforcement presence across all state parks.
Secretary Shea Lewis said, “We are taking immediate action to protect our visitors. The safety of Arkansans and tourists is our top priority.”
So far, investigators have received numerous public tips, but no arrests have been made. Police continue to follow leads and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
If you were in Devil’s Den State Park on Saturday, July 26, or if you live in the surrounding area and have relevant footage, please contact Arkansas State Police at (501) 618-8000.
This tragedy has shaken the local community and the broader region. As investigators work tirelessly to find answers, the hope remains that the killer will soon be brought to justice.
