A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded Saturday afternoon at Devil’s Den State Park in Arkansas, where a married couple was found dead on a hiking trail. The victims have been identified as 43-year-old Clinton David Brink and 41-year-old Cristen Amanda Brink, both of Van Buren, Arkansas.
According to Arkansas State Police, the Brinks were hiking with their two young daughters, ages 7 and 9, when the fatal incident occurred. Fortunately, the children were not physically harmed and are now in the care of relatives. Authorities responded to the scene at approximately 2:40 p.m., and have since launched an active double homicide investigation.
The precise circumstances and cause of death remain under investigation, with autopsies scheduled at the Arkansas State Crime Lab. Law enforcement officials say they are doing everything possible to identify and locate the suspect responsible for this devastating loss.
On Sunday, police released an updated description of the individual sought in connection with the killings. The suspect is described as a white male of medium build, last seen wearing dark pants, a dark baseball cap, sunglasses, and a long-sleeved shirt with rolled-up sleeves. He was also wearing fingerless gloves, possibly the type used for weightlifting. Authorities initially reported the man was wearing a tank top, but have since corrected that statement.
The suspect was seen driving a black four-door sedan, possibly a Mazda, with its license plate obscured by duct tape or electrical tape. The vehicle was reportedly traveling near State Highway 170 or State Highway 220, adjacent to the park.
Police are urging anyone who visited Devil’s Den State Park on Saturday to check any cellphone photos, videos, dashcams, or GoPro footage that may help identify the suspect. Residents living near the area are also encouraged to review home surveillance footage for anything unusual.
To preserve the integrity of the investigation, officials are asking the public not to share potential evidence on social media. Instead, any relevant material should be submitted directly to Arkansas State Police Troop L at (479) 751-6663.
Colonel Mike Hagar, director of the Arkansas State Police, assured the public that every available resource is being deployed in the effort to bring the suspect to justice.
Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders issued a statement offering condolences to the victims’ family and confirming that her office is working closely with state and local authorities to ensure justice is served.
The shocking deaths of Clinton and Cristen Brink have left their community reeling, and the tragic event has sparked an outpouring of grief, support, and calls for justice. As the investigation continues, the public’s cooperation remains crucial in helping authorities find the person responsible for this unimaginable act.
Anyone with information is strongly urged to come forward.
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