WEST FORK, Ark. – July 27, 2025 — The Arkansas State Police (ASP) has released new and critical information regarding the tragic double homicide that occurred at Devil’s Den State Park on Saturday, July 26, 2025. The victims, identified as Clinton David Brink, 43, and Cristen Amanda Brink, 41, were fatally attacked while hiking a wooded trail with their two young daughters. The children, ages 7 and 9, were not harmed and are currently safe in the care of family members.
The Brinks, who had recently relocated to Prairie Grove from another state, were enjoying what should have been a peaceful family outing in one of Arkansas’s most scenic parks when their lives were senselessly cut short. Their sudden and violent deaths have shaken not only their local community but also the entire state, prompting a wide-reaching law enforcement investigation and a heartfelt public outpouring of grief and support.
Incident Overview
At approximately 2:40 p.m. on Saturday, ASP was notified of a double homicide on a walking trail deep within the rugged terrain of Devil’s Den State Park in Washington County. The area where the incident occurred is known for its dense vegetation, remote location, and lack of cellphone coverage, which has added complexity to both the response and investigation.
The Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division (CID) is leading the probe, with support from various local, state, and federal law enforcement partners. The trail and surrounding area have been secured and remain off-limits to the public while forensic and investigative teams continue their work.
Updated Suspect Description
On Sunday, July 27, Arkansas State Police issued an updated and more refined description of the suspect based on additional information received over the past 24 hours:
- Race: White
- Build: Medium
- Clothing: Long-sleeved shirt (sleeves rolled up), dark pants
- Accessories: Dark ballcap, sunglasses, black backpack, and fingerless gloves
- Vehicle: Black, four-door sedan—possibly a Mazda—with a license plate covered by electrical or duct tape
- Last seen: Driving toward an exit from the park; may have traveled on State Highways 170 or 220
Call to Action for the Public
Law enforcement officials are now urgently asking the public for assistance in reviewing personal photos and video from the park on Saturday, July 26, to help identify the suspect or his vehicle.
- If you visited Devil’s Den on the day of the crime and took photos or video (including with cellphones, GoPro cameras, or trail cams), review your footage carefully for unfamiliar individuals or suspicious vehicles.
- Residents in the area surrounding the park who use home security or game cameras are also encouraged to check their recordings from that day.
- Do NOT post any potential evidence to social media, as it could compromise the investigation. Instead, contact investigators directly.
Submit tips or footage to: ASP Troop L — (479) 751-6663
Statement from State Officials
Shea Lewis, Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, issued a statement on behalf of the state:
“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 emphasized that Park Rangers, who are fully commissioned law enforcement officers, are now increasing their patrols and visibility in all Arkansas State Parks to ensure the public’s safety.
Active and Ongoing Investigation
Colonel Mike Hagar, Director of the Arkansas State Police, spoke directly to the public’s role in assisting the investigation:
“I want to thank the public and our media partners for their support as we pursue the man responsible for this heinous crime. We are using all available resources to apprehend this suspect and bring him to justice.”
ASP continues to pursue all credible leads and is working in coordination with multiple agencies to track the suspect’s movements and determine a motive, which remains unclear at this time.
Remembering Clinton and Cristen Brink
While details of their personal lives remain private, Clinton and Cristen Brink were described by acquaintances as loving parents and devoted partners who had recently begun a new chapter in Arkansas with their two young daughters. The horror of their deaths has stirred empathy and heartache far beyond Prairie Grove, as their story captures the deep vulnerability of even the most innocent family experiences.
How to Help
- If you have footage or information relevant to this case:
Contact Arkansas State Police Troop L at (479) 751-6663 - If you live in the vicinity of Devil’s Den or along Highways 170 or 220, check your camera systems for sightings of the black sedan with obscured plates
- Do not share investigative footage online—send it directly to law enforcement
As Arkansas mourns this tragic loss, authorities and the public alike are rallying to find the person responsible and ensure justice is delivered. The safety and peace of the state’s beloved parks—and the memory of two lives taken too soon—depend on it.
This is a developing story. Further updates will be issued as more information becomes available.
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