Devil’s Den Suspect Andrew James McGann Was Investigated at Prior Teaching Job

The man accused of fatally stabbing an Arkansas couple as they hiked with their two children had previously faced disciplinary issues while working as a fourth-grade teacher in Texas, according to school officials.

Andrew James McGann, 28, was taken into custody on July 30 at a barbershop in Springdale, Arkansas — about 35 miles from Devil’s Den State Park, where Clinton David Brink, 43, and his wife, Cristen Amanda Brink, 41, were killed on Saturday, July 26.

The couple’s two daughters were found unharmed. Investigators believe Cristen Brink first led the girls to safety before returning to assist her husband during the attack.

McGann now faces two counts of capital murder. Authorities say the killings appear to have been random.

Following his arrest, a Texas school district where McGann once taught issued a letter to families — later shared with PEOPLE — disclosing that he had been placed on administrative leave in spring 2023. The district investigated reports of poor classroom management and questionable professional judgment, including alleged favoritism among students.

While the investigation did not uncover any evidence of inappropriate conduct toward students, officials concluded McGann’s behavior failed to meet professional standards. He subsequently resigned in 2023.

McGann had previously introduced himself to the community of Donald Elementary School in August 2022 through a Facebook post, in which he shared that running was one of his favorite hobbies.

At the time of his arrest, McGann had recently secured a position at Springdale Public Schools in Arkansas, though he had not yet started working, according to the district superintendent.

Prosecutor Brandon Carter told PEOPLE he plans to seek the death penalty. McGann made his initial court appearance on August 1 and is currently being held without bond.

Authorities say McGann confessed to the killings while in custody. However, he did not enter a plea during Friday morning’s hearing. His next court date is scheduled for August 25.

As of now, the trails at Devil’s Den State Park remain closed to the public.