Listen: Radio Captures Moment Bodies Found at Devil's Den

Discovery of Victims at Devil’s Den State Park

On July 26, a chilling moment was captured on police scanners when an officer reported, “I’ve got two bodies down here.” This alarming statement came from deep within a trail at Devil’s Den State Park in West Fork, Arkansas. Shortly after, authorities confirmed that a man and a woman had been found deceased while hiking with their two young daughters, who were unharmed.

The victims were later identified as Clinton and Cristen Brink from Prairie Grove. Law enforcement is treating the incident as a double homicide, and the community is still reeling from the tragedy.

Radio Transcripts Reveal Critical Moments

During the critical time between 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 26, radio transmissions captured key exchanges among law enforcement officers. These recordings offer insight into the unfolding events:

• Trooper 1: “Do we need to cover the lower trails or just stay on the main trail?”
• Trooper 2: “Cover the main trail first.”
• Trooper 1: “Oh, help.”
• Trooper 2: “Sweep the main trail first right now.”
• Trooper 1: “Main trail… I saw hiking down… I’m asking for help…”
• Trooper 2: “Say that again, repeat.”
• Trooper 1: “I hear yells calling for help, we’re walking down…”
• Trooper 2: “Try to relay to the office that we found the victims down here. There are on the lower Devil’s Den Trail… I think I see you right there. I’ve got two bodies down here.”

These exchanges highlight the urgency and confusion during the initial response to the incident.

Ongoing Manhunt for Suspect

Law enforcement is currently searching for a suspect described as a white male of medium build. The individual was last seen wearing dark pants, a long-sleeved shirt with sleeves rolled up, a dark ballcap, sunglasses, fingerless gloves, and carrying a black backpack. He was reportedly driving a black four-door sedan, possibly a Mazda, with the license plate obscured by electrical or duct tape.

Authorities believe the suspect may have traveled toward a park exit and could have taken either State Highway 170 or 220. They are urging anyone with information to come forward, including park visitors who might have cellphone, GoPro, or camera footage from that day. Residents near the park are also asked to check home security or game camera footage.

Anyone with relevant information should contact Arkansas State Police Troop L at (479) 751-6663.

Community Reaction and Impact

Devil’s Den State Park remains partially closed as of July 27, with the area where the attack occurred still under law enforcement control. The rugged terrain, thick vegetation, and lack of cell service have made search efforts particularly challenging.

Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism Secretary Shea Lewis stated that the agency is working closely with the Arkansas State Police and has increased law enforcement presence in state parks. Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders called the Devil’s Den homicides “horrific” in a statement issued on July 26.

Nestled in the Ozarks, Devil’s Den State Park is known for its popular trails and natural beauty. However, the recent tragedy has left many locals shaken.

“It’s kind of crazy, they are saying it’s a random act,” said Tyler Yeakley, a local who frequently visits the park. “It definitely makes you think, you never know, the craziest thing can happen out of nowhere. Especially in Arkansas.”

As the investigation continues, the community is coming together to support the families affected and to ensure that such a tragedy does not go unnoticed.