Photo: Arkansas State Police
James Andrew McGann, a 28-year-old from Springdale, Arkansas, has been charged with the murders of Clinton and Cristen Brink at Devil’s Den State Park. The tragic incident occurred over the weekend, with the couple's two young daughters, aged seven and nine, witnessing the event. Thankfully, the children were unharmed and are now in the care of family members.
Arkansas state police arrested McGann on Wednesday (July 30) and charged him with two counts of capital murder. The authorities have not yet disclosed a motive for the killings. McGann was recently hired as a teacher candidate at Springdale public schools but had not yet interacted with students or their families.
The state police had previously released a composite sketch and photo of a person of interest, indicating that the suspect might have been injured during the attack. The FBI's Little Rock field office is assisting in the ongoing investigation.
Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders expressed her condolences to the Brink family, stating, "No news can heal the enormous harm done to the Brink family in last weekend’s crime, but this announcement is a comfort and reassurance for our state." She emphasized the commitment of Arkansas law enforcement to bringing justice to those who commit violent acts.
The Brinks had recently moved from South Dakota to Prairie Grove, Arkansas. Clinton Brink was set to start a job as a milk delivery driver, while Cristen Brink was a licensed nurse. The family described the couple as "heroes protecting their little girls."
Devil’s Den State Park, located about 140 miles northwest of Little Rock, remains closed as the investigation continues.