Double Homicide at Devil’s Den State Park: Arkansas State Police Release Sketch of Person of Interest in Grisly Slayings
WEST FORK, Ark. — A quiet weekend at one of Arkansas’ most beloved natural retreats turned into a scene of horror as authorities continue to investigate a brutal double homicide that has shaken the entire region. The Arkansas State Police (ASP) on Monday released a composite sketch of a man considered a person of interest in connection with the savage killings of a Washington County couple—Clinton David Brink, 43, and Cristen Amanda Brink, 41—whose bodies were discovered on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Devil’s Den State Park.
According to officials, the couple had been on a weekend outing to the popular state park, known for its dense forests, hiking trails, and picturesque views. The park, located near West Fork in Washington County, is typically a sanctuary of peace and beauty for families and nature lovers. That serenity was shattered when park rangers responded to a 911 call around 6:45 p.m. Saturday reporting an unresponsive couple along one of the lesser-used trails near Yellow Rock Overlook.
Upon arrival, rangers found the couple’s bodies lying side by side in what investigators described as a “deliberately staged” scene. Clinton and Cristen Brink, both residents of nearby Prairie Grove, were pronounced dead at the scene from what authorities have confirmed were “multiple violent injuries.” The precise cause of death has not been released publicly, pending the results of autopsies by the Arkansas State Crime Lab, but investigators have confirmed that foul play is involved and that the attack appears to have been premeditated.
Sketch of Person of Interest Released
On Monday morning, Arkansas State Police released a composite sketch of a man believed to have been seen in the area around the time of the killings. Witnesses described the man as a white male, possibly in his mid-30s to early 40s, with medium build, scruffy facial hair, and wearing dark clothing, including a hooded sweatshirt despite the summer heat. According to ASP spokesperson Lt. Jarrett Swope, the man was seen walking alone in the general vicinity of where the victims were later found.
“This individual is not currently considered a suspect, but he is someone we believe may have valuable information,” Lt. Swope said during a press briefing. “We are urging anyone who recognizes this person to contact our tip line immediately. No tip is too small.”
Authorities have also confirmed that a surveillance camera at the park’s visitor center may have captured the person of interest walking along the entrance path approximately 90 minutes before the bodies were discovered. Investigators are working to enhance and verify that footage.
Community in Mourning
The deaths of Clinton and Cristen Brink have sent shockwaves through the small communities of Prairie Grove and surrounding areas. The Brinks were described by neighbors as kind, hardworking, and deeply devoted to each other. Clinton, a technician with Ozark Electric Cooperative, was well-known for his generosity and involvement in local youth sports leagues. Cristen worked as a nurse at Washington Regional Medical Center and was beloved by her colleagues and patients alike.
“They were soulmates in every sense of the word,” said longtime friend Jenna Richards. “They loved hiking, camping, and just being in nature together. Devil’s Den was their favorite spot. That’s what makes this so incredibly heartbreaking.”
A candlelight vigil is being organized by friends and family and will be held at Prairie Grove City Park this Friday evening at 7:30 p.m. The community is expected to turn out in large numbers, both to remember the Brinks and to stand in solidarity against the violence that claimed their lives.
Ongoing Investigation
At present, ASP has not ruled out any motives—including robbery, personal dispute, or even random violence—and is coordinating with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, and federal authorities to broaden the scope of the search. K-9 units and drones were deployed in the aftermath of the discovery, but as of Tuesday morning, no suspects have been named, and no arrests have been made.
The park has reopened with limited access, though several trails remain closed as forensic teams continue to comb the area for evidence.
“This is an active and very sensitive investigation,” said ASP Special Agent Carmen Hill. “We are pursuing every lead. Our priority is getting justice for the victims and ensuring public safety.”
Call for Public Assistance
Anyone who visited Devil’s Den State Park between Friday, July 25, and Saturday evening is urged to come forward, especially if they may have seen any suspicious activity or individuals matching the composite sketch. Tips can be submitted anonymously through the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division tip line at (501) 618-8000 or online through the ASP website.
Additionally, the family of Clinton and Cristen Brink has established a memorial fund to support funeral expenses and advocate for improvements to park safety, including enhanced surveillance and emergency communication infrastructure.
As the investigation unfolds, the serene trails of Devil’s Den are now haunted not just by natural echoes, but by the pressing questions of who did this—and why. The Arkansas State Police and the grieving community will not rest until those questions are answered, and justice is served.