Arkansas State Police Release Composite Sketch in Devil’s Den Double Homicide

Arkansas State Police Release Composite Sketch in Devil’s Den Double Homicide

Public Urged to Help Identify Man Sought for Questioning After Tragic Loss of Clinton and Cristen Brink

DEVIL’S DEN STATE PARK, Ark. — July 29, 2025 — The Arkansas State Police (ASP) have released a composite sketch of a man they are urgently seeking for questioning in connection with a double homicide that occurred at Devil’s Den State Park over the weekend. The tragic incident, which has shaken the community and sparked a wide-reaching investigation, claimed the lives of Clinton David Brink, 43, and Cristen Amanda Brink, 41 — a married couple from Fayetteville, Arkansas, who were visiting the park on Saturday, July 26.

Authorities say the Brinks were found dead at a remote campsite near the park’s Butterfield Hiking Trail on Saturday evening after they failed to return from what friends described as a planned overnight hike. Park rangers discovered their bodies shortly after 7:00 p.m. and notified law enforcement immediately. ASP confirmed that both victims died from gunshot wounds, and foul play was evident.

Manhunt and Composite Sketch Released

In a public announcement made Monday evening, the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division released a composite sketch based on witness accounts and surveillance footage captured near the park’s entrance earlier that day. The man depicted in the sketch is described as:

• White male, possibly in his 30s

• Medium build, approximately 5’10” to 6’0”

• Short brown or dark blond hair

• Seen wearing outdoor or hiking attire and carrying a dark-colored backpack

According to ASP, he was spotted leaving the area on foot near the trailhead shortly after the estimated time of the homicides. While authorities are not calling him a suspect at this time, they emphasize that he is a “person of significant interest” who may have information critical to the investigation.

“We urge the public to study this sketch carefully and contact us immediately if they recognize the individual,” said ASP spokesperson Lt. Corey Mitchell. “Even if you think the information might not matter — it could be the key to solving this case.”

Tips can be submitted to the Arkansas State Police tip line at 1-800-553-3820 or emailed anonymously through the agency’s official website.

Victims Remembered: A Devoted Couple and Loving Parents

Clinton and Cristen Brink were residents of Fayetteville, where they were well-known and well-loved in both personal and professional circles. Clinton was a local land surveyor with a reputation for precision and a deep love of the outdoors. Cristen worked as a pediatric nurse, known for her compassion, dedication, and calming presence.

Married for over 15 years, the couple shared a mutual passion for nature, hiking, and photography. Friends say Devil’s Den was one of their favorite spots — a place where they went to unwind, reflect, and reconnect with each other.

“They were soulmates in every sense of the word,” said one family friend. “They didn’t just love each other — they respected each other. They were kind, generous, and full of life.”

The Brinks leave behind two children, ages [insert ages if known], along with extended family, friends, colleagues, and a devastated Fayetteville community. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist with funeral expenses and provide for the children’s future.

Community Reaction and Growing Concern

The double homicide has shocked the community and prompted questions about safety in one of Arkansas’s most popular state parks. Located in Washington County, Devil’s Den is renowned for its rugged beauty, sandstone crevices, and miles of hiking trails. Visitors travel from across the state and beyond to explore its natural features.

In response to the incident, the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism has increased ranger patrols throughout the park and urged hikers to remain vigilant, travel in groups, and report any suspicious activity.

“This is a heartbreaking tragedy,” said Park Superintendent Tanya Eldridge. “Our hearts are with the Brink family. We are fully cooperating with law enforcement to ensure the park remains safe for all.”

While no further incidents have been reported, locals have expressed growing unease and are calling for expanded security measures, including improved surveillance systems and trailhead check-ins.

Investigation Ongoing

The Arkansas State Police have confirmed that the investigation is ongoing and that multiple leads are being pursued. Forensic teams remain active at the scene, collecting evidence from the couple’s tent, surrounding trails, and personal belongings.

Authorities are reviewing park visitor logs, vehicle records, and cell phone data in an effort to reconstruct the Brinks’ final hours. No firearm has been recovered as of Tuesday morning.

How the Public Can Help

Officials are asking anyone who visited Devil’s Den State Park between Friday, July 25 and Saturday, July 26, especially those who used the Butterfield Trail, to report anything unusual — even if it seems minor.

Hikers with GoPro footage, trail cam photos, or dash cam video from the area are being encouraged to share the material with investigators. Additionally, residents and business owners near the park are asked to check their security cameras for any suspicious individuals or vehicles in the area.

A Time for Healing, and Justice

As Arkansas mourns the loss of Clinton and Cristen Brink, efforts are intensifying to bring clarity and closure to a case that has shaken the state. Vigils are being planned in Fayetteville and at Devil’s Den, where community members will gather in grief, remembrance, and solidarity.

“We won’t rest until we know what happened and who is responsible,” said Lt. Mitchell. “The Brinks deserve justice. Their children deserve answers. And this community deserves peace.”

If you recognize the man in the composite sketch or have any information that may assist in this investigation, please contact Arkansas State Police immediately at 1-800-553-3820. All tips can remain anonymous.

Let me know if you’d like a version tailored for local news release, social media outreach, or a community vigil announcement.