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Couple slain while hiking with daughters in Arkansas state park, police say

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Published: Monday, July 28, 2025 at 12:09 am

Couple Murdered While Hiking in Arkansas State Park, Manhunt Underway

Authorities are investigating a double homicide at Devils Den State Park in Arkansas, where a couple was found dead on a hiking trail. The victims, identified as Clinton David Brink, 43, and Cristen Amanda Brink, 41, had recently relocated to Prairie Grove, Arkansas, from out of state. Public records indicate they had previously resided in California and Montana.

The Arkansas State Police were notified of the incident shortly before 3 p.m. on Saturday. The couple's two daughters, aged 7 and 9, were unharmed and are now in the care of family. The investigation is ongoing to determine if the children witnessed the homicides.

A manhunt is currently underway, led by the Arkansas State Police, to locate the suspect. Authorities have described the suspect as a man with a medium build, wearing a dark, long-sleeved shirt with rolled-up sleeves, dark pants, a dark baseball cap, and fingerless gloves. He may have been seen driving a black sedan, possibly a Mazda, with a partially obscured license plate, heading towards a park exit. Investigators believe he may have traveled on State Highway 170 or State Highway 220.

Details regarding the weapon used and the motive behind the killings remain unknown. The Arkansas State Crime Lab is working to confirm the cause and manner of death. Detectives are seeking any cellphone or GoPro-style imagery from individuals who were at the park on Saturday. The area where the homicides occurred remains closed to the public.

Devils Den State Park, known for its rugged terrain and lack of cellphone service, is a popular destination for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. All trails within the park are closed until further notice.

BNN's Perspective: This tragic event underscores the importance of vigilance and the need for law enforcement to quickly bring the perpetrator to justice. While the details are still emerging, the safety of park visitors and the well-being of the victims' children are paramount concerns. We hope for a swift resolution to this case and offer our condolences to the family.

Keywords: Arkansas, Devils Den State Park, double homicide, hiking, murder, manhunt, Clinton David Brink, Cristen Amanda Brink, Prairie Grove, suspect, investigation, state police, crime, park closure, children, black sedan, Mazda.

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