West Fork, AR – Arkansas State Police are investigating a double homicide at Devil’s Den State Park in Washington County following the discovery of two bodies on a walking trail. The incident was reported at approximately 2:40 p.m. on Saturday, July 26, 2025, and remains under active investigation as of 4:36 PM CDT, Sunday, July 27, 2025.
The victims have been identified as Clinton David Brink, 43, and Cristen Amanda Brink, 41, a couple who recently moved to Prairie Grove from another state. They were hiking with their daughters, ages 7 and 9, when the attack occurred. The girls were not injured and are currently safe with family members. The bodies were found in a remote area of the park and have been transported to the Arkansas State Crime Lab to determine the cause and manner of death.
The suspect is described as an unknown white male of medium build. He was last seen wearing dark pants, a long-sleeved shirt with rolled-up sleeves, a dark ballcap, sunglasses, fingerless gloves, and carrying a black backpack. He was observed driving a black, four-door sedan, possibly a Mazda, with a license plate obscured by electrical or duct tape, heading toward a park exit. The vehicle may have traveled on State Highway 170 or State Highway 220 near the park. The area where the incident occurred remains cordoned off, though other park facilities like the pool and picnic areas have reopened.
Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders released a statement expressing heartbreak and confirming close coordination with State Police and the Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism 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,” she said. Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism Secretary Shea Lewis added that the agency is increasing law enforcement presence in state parks and supporting the investigation.
ASP is requesting assistance from the public, asking visitors who were at the park on July 26 to check photos, videos, or GoPro footage for images of the suspect, and residents near the park to review security or game camera footage. Individuals are advised not to post footage on social media, as it could jeopardize the investigation. Contact ASP Troop L at (479) 751-6663 with any information. The FBI’s Little Rock office is in communication with ASP and prepared to assist if needed. The rugged terrain and lack of cell service have complicated the search, which continues with all available resources.
The Batesville Tribune will provide updates as the investigation progresses and welcomes community input on this matter.
