WEST FORK, Ark. – A devastating double homicide at Devil’s Den State Park on Saturday, July 26, 2025, has left the northwest Arkansas community in mourning and authorities searching for answers. The Arkansas State Police (ASP) is actively investigating the brutal killings of Clinton David Brink, 43, and Cristen Amanda Brink, 41, a couple who had recently relocated to Prairie Grove from out of state. The couple was hiking with their two young daughters, aged 7 and 9, when they were fatally attacked on a walking trail in the remote park located in Washington County.

**The Incident and Victims
Clinton and Cristen Brink were found dead on a trail in Devil’s Den State Park around 2:40 p.m. on Saturday, July 26, 2025, following a report of a double homicide. The couple was hiking with their daughters, who were miraculously unharmed and are now safe with family members. The Brinks had recently moved to Prairie Grove, a small town near the Oklahoma border, and were beginning a new chapter in Arkansas. Clinton was set to start a job delivering milk for Hiland Dairy in the Fayetteville area, having transferred from Prairie Farms Dairy in South Dakota. Cristen, a graduate of Miles Community College with an associate degree in nursing, was known for her volunteer work at a local elementary school.

The family’s statement, released on Monday, July 28, 2025, expressed profound grief and resilience: “The family is asking for privacy during this very difficult time as they grieve and learn how to navigate this new reality. Clinton and Cristen died heroes, protecting their little girls, and they deserve justice. They will forever live on in all of our hearts.”
**Suspect Description and Investigation
While no composite sketch has been publicly released, the Arkansas State Police have provided an updated description of the suspect based on witness accounts and evidence gathered at the scene. The suspect is described as a white male of medium build, last seen wearing a long-sleeved shirt with the sleeves rolled up (correcting an earlier report of a tank top), dark pants, a dark baseball cap, sunglasses, and fingerless gloves. He was carrying a black backpack and was spotted driving a black four-door sedan, possibly a Mazda, with its license plate obscured by electrical or duct tape. The vehicle was seen heading toward a park exit and may have traveled on State Highway 170 or State Highway 220 near the park.

The rugged terrain of Devil’s Den State Park, characterized by thick vegetation and limited cellphone service, has posed challenges for investigators. The area where the attack occurred remains cordoned off, and all park trails are closed until further notice. The ASP’s Criminal Investigation Division, in collaboration with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, the FBI Little Rock Field Office, and other local and federal agencies, is pursuing all leads to apprehend the suspect.

**Call for Public Assistance
Authorities are urging anyone who visited Devil’s Den State Park on Saturday, July 26, 2025, to review cellphone photos, videos, or GoPro footage for potential images of the suspect or his vehicle. Residents near the park or along State Highways 170 and 220 are asked to check security or game camera recordings for suspicious activity. Investigators have emphasized that even minor details could be critical to the investigation but have cautioned against sharing footage on social media, as it may jeopardize the case.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Arkansas State Police Troop L at (479) 751-6663 or call 911. ASP has assured the public that all tips are being thoroughly reviewed, and voicemails will be returned promptly.

**Community Response and Increased Safety Measures
The tragedy has deeply affected the Prairie Grove and northwest Arkansas communities, where the Brinks were known as devoted parents and active community members. Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders expressed her condolences on social media, stating, “We are heartbroken by today’s horrific news from Devil’s Den State Park and are in close contact with State Police and the Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism as they work to apprehend the suspect. 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.”

Shea Lewis, Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, issued a statement emphasizing the state’s commitment to safety: “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. The safety of our visitors and staff is our highest priority, and we are working closely with Arkansas State Police and various law enforcement officials as the investigation continues.” Lewis also noted that park rangers, who are fully commissioned law enforcement officers, have increased patrols across Arkansas state parks to ensure visitor safety.

**Ongoing Investigation
The investigation remains active, with authorities exploring all possible leads. While no information has been released regarding the specific manner of the Brinks’ deaths, the Arkansas State Crime Lab is working to confirm the cause and manner of death. Colonel Mike Hagar, director of the Arkansas State Police, stated, “We are using all available resources to apprehend this suspect and bring him to justice.” The community is urged to remain vigilant and report any relevant information to aid in the swift resolution of this heartbreaking case.