Manhunt after couple 'murdered' while hiking with daughters on Devil's Den trail
An urgent manhunt is underway after a couple were killed while hiking with their young daughters at a beauty spot. Police have launched a murder investigation following the deaths of Clinton David Brink, 43, and Cristen Amanda Brink, 41, who had two children aged seven and nine.
They family visited Devil's Den State Park, Arkansas, US, on Saturday. They were on a hiking trail when they were "attacked", with the bodies of the couple found and police alerted at around 2.40pm. The two children were not injured and are now safe with other family members.
The family had only recently moved to Prairie Grove from another state. Police are appealing for information from people who were at the park on Saturday and especially from those who may have footage while the area is cordoned off.
Arkansas police stated: "Investigators are asking those who visited the park on Saturday to check cellphone photos and videos or GoPro camera footage for images of the suspect.
"They are also asking residents of the area surrounding the park to notify ASP if they have access to security and game camera footage. The area of the park where the incident occurred remains cordoned off and secured by law enforcement. The park is located in a remote and rural area, where the terrain is rugged, vegetation is thick and there is no cellphone service."
Updated information has been released by the police of the suspect who is described as a white male with a medium build. He was seen driving to the park exit in a Mazda which had its licence plate covered.
Police said: "After receiving additional information, investigators now believe he was wearing a long-sleeved shirt, with sleeves rolled up, rather than a tank top as originally reported.
"The suspect is an unknown white male with a medium build. He was wearing dark pants, a dark ballcap and sunglasses. The suspect had a black backpack and was wearing fingerless gloves. He was seen driving toward a park exit in a black, four-door sedan.
"The suspect's vehicle may be a Mazda with a license plate covered by electrical or duct tape. It may have been traveling on State Highway 170 or State Highway 220 near the park.
"Anyone with images of the suspect, information about the suspect or his whereabouts should contact ASP Troop L at (479) 751-6663. Investigators urge anyone with photos or video to not post footage on social media, as this may inadvertently jeopardize the investigation."
Shea Lewis, Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, issued a statement saying, 'We are deeply saddened by the tragic events that occurred at Devil's Den State Park. Our hearts are with the victims' loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. The safety of our visitors and staff is our highest priority, and we are working closely with Arkansas State Police and various law enforcement officials as the investigation continues.
"We have increased law enforcement presence in our state parks. Our Park Rangers are fully commissioned law enforcement officers, and they are actively engaged in ensuring the safety and security of our park guests. We remain committed to supporting the ongoing investigation and to maintaining Arkansas State Parks as safe, welcoming places for all.'
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