WEST FORK, Ark. — A peaceful afternoon hike turned into a nightmare for a family in West Fork, Arkansas, as two lives were tragically cut short in a brutal attack at Devil’s Den State Park on Saturday, July 26, 2025. The Arkansas State Police (ASP) are actively investigating the deaths of Clinton David Brink, 43, and his wife Cristen Amanda Brink, 41, after their bodies were found on a popular hiking trail in the park. The double homicide has sent shockwaves through the local community, with the suspect still at large and considered a serious threat to the public.

The Tragic Discovery

The tragic events unfolded around 2:40 p.m. on July 26 when park-goers discovered the bodies of the Brinks on one of the park’s hiking trails. The bodies were found in close proximity to one another, and authorities quickly confirmed that they were victims of a violent attack. While the couple’s children, aged 7 and 9, were present at the scene, they miraculously emerged unharmed. The young girls are now in the care of family members and are receiving support as they cope with the traumatic loss of their parents.

A Young Family’s Loss

Clinton and Cristen Brink, who had recently relocated to Prairie Grove from out of state, were well-liked members of their community. They had been enjoying a family outing on the hiking trails of Devil’s Den State Park when they became the victims of a senseless and brutal crime. The Brinks had moved to Arkansas in search of a fresh start, and their deaths have left a deep void in the hearts of their loved ones and the wider community. Friends and family have expressed their shock and sadness over the tragedy, remembering the couple as caring parents and upstanding individuals who had much to offer to the world.

Investigating the Homicides

Arkansas State Police are investigating the double homicide, with authorities working tirelessly to gather information and evidence in hopes of identifying the person responsible for this heinous act. Initially, the suspect was described as a white male wearing dark shorts, a tank top, and weightlifting gloves. However, as the investigation progressed and new details were uncovered, authorities revised the suspect’s description to provide a more accurate picture.

The current description of the suspect is as follows:

• A white male of medium build

• Wearing a long-sleeved shirt with the sleeves rolled up

• Dark pants, dark ballcap, and sunglasses

• Fingerless gloves and carrying a backpack

• The suspect was last seen driving a black, four-door sedan, possibly a Mazda, with the license plate obscured using electrical or duct tape.

According to eyewitness reports, the suspect was seen leaving the park in the direction of the exit and may have been traveling on State Highway 170 or State Highway 220, both of which are in close proximity to Devil’s Den State Park. The suspect’s vehicle has been a key point of focus in the investigation, as authorities continue to search for any clues that may lead them to the individual responsible.

Public Assistance Requested

In light of the ongoing investigation, Arkansas State Police are urging the public to come forward with any information that could aid in the search for the suspect. ASP is requesting that anyone who visited Devil’s Den State Park on the day of the murders review any photos or videos they may have taken while at the park. In particular, authorities are looking for any images or footage that may contain visual evidence of the suspect or his vehicle.

Residents in the surrounding areas of West Fork and Prairie Grove are also being asked to check their security and game cameras for any suspicious activity that may have been captured. Even the smallest clue could be crucial in helping authorities track down the suspect.

Anyone with relevant information is urged to immediately contact ASP Troop L at (479) 751-6663. The cooperation of the public is essential as authorities work diligently to bring the perpetrator to justice.

Law Enforcement Response and Coordination

The response from law enforcement agencies has been swift and coordinated. ASP Colonel Mike Hagar has stated that the department is using all available resources in the search for the suspect. “We are using every resource at our disposal to apprehend this suspect and bring him to justice,” said Colonel Hagar. “I want to thank the public and our media partners for their continued support and cooperation as we work to identify and locate the individual responsible for this heinous crime.”

In addition to the Arkansas State Police, other local, state, and federal agencies have joined forces to assist in the investigation. The FBI, through their Little Rock office, has been in close contact with ASP and has offered its support in the manhunt. Jessica Franklin, Public Affairs Officer for the FBI Little Rock, affirmed the bureau’s readiness to assist with the investigation as needed.

This multi-agency collaboration has led to an extensive search in and around the park, as well as a review of any available evidence that could provide a lead on the suspect’s whereabouts. As the manhunt intensifies, law enforcement officials are optimistic that the increased efforts will soon lead to an arrest.

Increased Security at State Parks

Following the tragic deaths of the Brinks, Arkansas State Parks officials have confirmed that additional law enforcement officers are now present across all state parks in the area. This heightened security is intended to ensure the safety of visitors, as park-goers remain understandably shaken by the double homicide.

“While this is an isolated incident, we want to reassure the public that their safety is our top priority,” said Arkansas State Parks Director, Greg Butts. “We are working closely with law enforcement to ensure that our parks remain safe and that such a tragedy does not happen again.”

Visitors to Devil’s Den State Park, and other state parks, are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to park rangers or law enforcement personnel.

Community’s Shock and Response

The deaths of Clinton and Cristen Brink have left the local community reeling. Family members, friends, and neighbors have expressed their grief over the loss of the couple, who were described as kind-hearted and full of life. The Brinks’ two young daughters, who witnessed the traumatic events but were unharmed, have received an outpouring of support from their extended family and community members.

Local residents have come together to hold vigils and offer condolences to the Brink family, with many expressing their disbelief over such a senseless tragedy. “It’s just unimaginable,” said one neighbor, who preferred to remain anonymous. “They were such a nice family. I can’t believe this happened.”

In the wake of the murders, local churches and support groups have also stepped in to offer counseling and emotional support to the girls and the Brink family. “We are doing everything we can to support these children,” said Pastor Samuel Tate, who has been working closely with the family. “We know that this will be a long road ahead, but we will walk it with them.”

Looking Ahead: The Ongoing Investigation

As the investigation continues, authorities remain committed to solving the case and ensuring that those responsible for the Brinks’ deaths are held accountable. The case has garnered widespread media attention, with national outlets covering the search for the suspect and the ongoing investigation. Arkansas State Police have assured the public that they will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available.

In the meantime, residents in the area are urged to stay alert and report any tips or sightings to law enforcement. ASP has promised to follow up on all leads and remains optimistic that the suspect will be apprehended soon.

For now, the focus remains on finding justice for Clinton and Cristen Brink and ensuring the safety and well-being of their young daughters.

Conclusion

This horrific crime has shaken the West Fork community to its core, leaving two children without their parents and a community grappling with the shock of a senseless double homicide. While the suspect remains on the loose, law enforcement agencies continue their relentless pursuit to bring him to justice. As the investigation unfolds, it is clear that the cooperation of the public, along with the tireless efforts of local, state, and federal authorities, will be critical in solving this case.