WEST FORK, AR — Arkansas State Police have arrested 28-year-old James Andrew McGann in connection with the brutal double homicide that took place on July 26, 2025, at Devil’s Den State Park in Washington County. McGann now faces two counts of Capital Murder for the killings of 43-year-old Clinton David Brink and 41-year-old Cristen Amanda Brink, a married couple who were hiking with their two young daughters when the attack occurred.
The arrest marks a significant development in a case that has stunned the local community and sparked a multi-agency manhunt throughout the region. Authorities confirmed that McGann was taken into custody without incident and is being held at the Washington County Detention Center pending a formal arraignment.
The Tragic Incident
On the afternoon of Saturday, July 26, Arkansas State Police responded to reports of a double homicide on a hiking trail within Devil’s Den State Park — a scenic and heavily visited location in Northwest Arkansas. When troopers arrived around 2:40 p.m., they discovered the bodies of Clinton and Cristen Brink, both of whom had sustained fatal injuries.
The couple had reportedly been hiking with their 7-year-old and 9-year-old daughters when they were ambushed on the trail. Miraculously, the children were unharmed and were later reunited with extended family. Police say the attack was sudden and violent, prompting an urgent investigation into what appeared to be a random act of brutality in an otherwise peaceful outdoor setting.
Suspect Description and Composite Sketch
In the hours following the murders, police released a description of the suspect — initially believed to be an unidentified white male last seen wearing a dark tank top, weight-lifting gloves, and shorts. He was spotted fleeing in a black four-door Mazda sedan, which was later reported to have its license plate obscured with electrical or duct tape.
The Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division worked around the clock to process crime scene evidence, review surveillance footage, and gather eyewitness accounts. By July 28, a composite sketch of the suspect was released to the public, which ultimately helped generate multiple credible tips leading to McGann’s identification.
The Arrest of James Andrew McGann
Authorities have not released specific details about how McGann was apprehended or what physical evidence directly links him to the crime. However, sources close to the investigation indicate that forensic evidence, eyewitness reports, and community tips all played a crucial role in leading investigators to McGann.
He is now charged with two counts of Capital Murder, a charge that in Arkansas carries the possibility of life imprisonment or the death penalty upon conviction.
“This arrest brings us one step closer to justice for Clinton and Cristen Brink, and for the daughters who now face a life without their parents,” said ASP spokesperson Lt. Preston Howard. “We are grateful to the public for their vigilance, and to our officers for their tireless dedication to solving this case.”
Community Reaction
News of McGann’s arrest has brought a mixture of relief and continued sorrow to the residents of West Fork and surrounding communities. A growing memorial has formed at Devil’s Den State Park in honor of the Brinks, with flowers, candles, and heartfelt notes left by loved ones and strangers alike.
The family has issued a brief statement thanking law enforcement and the public for their support, and requesting continued privacy as they grieve and begin the long road to healing.
“This community has been shaken to its core,” said Washington County Judge Patrick Deakins. “But we will stand together, and we will support the Brink family and ensure justice is served.”
Ongoing Investigation
Arkansas State Police continue to investigate whether McGann acted alone or if others may have played a role in the events leading up to the murders. Authorities have not revealed a possible motive, and it remains unclear if there was any prior connection between McGann and the victims.
Anyone with additional information is urged to contact ASP Troop L at 479-751-6663.
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