A tragic incident unfolded over the weekend in Arkansas when a couple was brutally murdered while on a trail walk at a renowned state park, leaving their two young daughters orphaned. The victims, identified as Clinton David Brink, 43, and Cristen Amanda Brink, 41, were found dead on Saturday afternoon at Devil’s Den State Park, a popular tourist spot known for its caves, rock formations, and expansive forest, according to state police.
The couple’s daughters, aged 9 and 7, were found unharmed and are currently under the care of other family members. The park, situated within the Ozark National Forest, is a favored spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The family had recently relocated to Arkansas from another state, as per the Arkansas Department of Public Safety.
Arkansas State Police are now on the hunt for a suspicious individual described as a white male, seen wearing dark shorts, a dark tank top, and weightlifting gloves. The suspect was last spotted driving a black four-door sedan, possibly a Mazda, with a license plate obscured by electrical or duct tape, towards a park exit.
The bodies of the deceased couple are being transported to the Arkansas State Crime Lab for further examination to determine the cause and manner of death. The motive behind the horrifying killings remains unclear as investigators continue their probe.
Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders expressed her grief over the incident on social media, stating, “We are heartbroken by today’s horrific news from Devil’s Den State Park and are in close contact with State Police and the Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism as they work 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.”
Devil’s Den State Park, located approximately 30 miles south of Fayetteville, is nestled in the Ozark National Forest. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping, and fishing and boating.