Husband and Wife Killed While Hiking with Their 2 Daughters in Arkansas — and Police Are Still Searching for a Suspect

Authorities are searching for a suspect after a husband and wife were found dead while hiking with their two young daughters in a remote area of Devil’s Den State Park in northwestern Arkansas.

Clinton David Brink, 43, and his wife Cristen Amanda Brink, 41, were fatally attacked on Saturday, July 26, while on a hike with their daughters, ages 7 and 9, according to a press release from Arkansas State Police (ASP). The girls were not physically harmed and are now in the care of relatives.

Police were alerted to the killings at approximately 2:40 p.m. local time and arrived shortly after to the scene — a rugged trail deep within the heavily wooded park.

The Brinks had recently moved to Prairie Grove, a small community near the Oklahoma border. Their sudden deaths have shaken the region, prompting an urgent and widespread manhunt for their killer.

On Sunday, July 27, state police released an updated description of the suspect: a White male of medium build, last seen wearing a long-sleeved shirt with the sleeves rolled up, dark pants, a dark hat, sunglasses, and fingerless gloves. He was reportedly carrying a black backpack and 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 authorities believe the suspect may have taken State Highway 170 or State Highway 220 after leaving the area.

Investigators are asking anyone who visited Devil’s Den on Saturday to review any photos, videos, or GoPro footage for potential sightings of the suspect. Area residents with home security or game cameras are also being urged to check for anything unusual and report it to ASP.

Police stressed that any potential evidence should not be posted on social media, as doing so could interfere with the investigation.

The section of Devil’s Den State Park where the crime occurred has been closed to the public while the search continues. The terrain is described as remote, with dense vegetation and no cell phone service — conditions that complicate both the investigation and any search efforts.

Shea Lewis, Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, said in a statement that all state parks will now see a heightened law enforcement presence.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic events that occurred at Devil’s Den State Park,” Lewis said. “Our hearts are with the victims’ loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. We remain committed to supporting the investigation and keeping our parks safe and welcoming for everyone.”

Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact Arkansas State Police immediately. The investigation remains ongoing.