A 28-year-old teacher has been arrested and charged with the brutal murder of a married couple who were hiking with their two daughters at Devil’s Den State Park in Arkansas.

According to Fox News, Andrew James McGann was apprehended at a barbershop in Springdale on Wednesday, following a multi-day manhunt. McGann faces two counts of capital murder for the deaths of Clinton David Brink, 43, and Cristen Amanda Brink, 41, whose bodies were discovered on a hiking trail. Their daughters, ages 7 and 9, were unharmed and are now in the care of family members.

Arkansas State Police Director Col. Mike Hagar confirmed that McGann confessed to the crime and that DNA evidence linked him to the scene. Authorities also recovered items from McGann’s residence consistent with the crime during a search.

Details of the attack emerge

The tragic incident occurred on Saturday, July 26, 2025, when the Brink family was hiking in the Ozark Mountains. Investigators revealed that Clinton Brink was attacked first, and Cristen Brink attempted to lead their daughters to safety before returning to help her husband. Both parents succumbed to stab wounds, with a knife identified as the murder weapon.

Col. Hagar emphasized that the attack appeared random, with no known connection between McGann and the victims. Blood evidence at the scene, which included injuries sustained by McGann, played a crucial role in identifying him as the suspect. Witnesses at the park also provided descriptions of McGann and his vehicle, aiding the investigation.

Major Stacey Rhodes highlighted the bravery of the Brink children, who provided initial information to authorities. Their account, combined with witness reports, led to a swift resolution in locating McGann.

Arrest and suspect background

McGann was arrested while getting a haircut in Springdale, Arkansas. During his interrogation, he reportedly admitted to the murders. Authorities have stated that McGann acted alone, and no additional suspects are being pursued. Over 500 tips were generated during the investigation, which remains ongoing.

McGann, a former teacher in Oklahoma, had recently moved to Arkansas and was set to start a new teaching job. Sand Springs Public Schools confirmed that McGann had passed all background checks before resigning in May. However, a 2023 complaint from a parent alleged inappropriate behavior, though an investigation found no evidence of misconduct. McGann’s classroom management and professional judgment were deemed below expectations, leading to his resignation.

Springdale Public Schools Superintendent Jared Cleveland confirmed that McGann had not yet interacted with students or families in his new position. He extended condolences to the Brink family, emphasizing the district’s commitment to supporting the community.

Community and official reactions

The murders have shocked the local community and prompted strong reactions from law enforcement and government officials. Col. Hagar described McGann as a “monster” and praised the collaboration between agencies in bringing him to justice. Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders echoed this sentiment, stating, “We do not tolerate violent crime in Arkansas. If you target innocent people, law enforcement will hunt you down and bring you to justice.”

The trail where the murders occurred remains closed as authorities continue their investigation. Devil’s Den State Park, a popular destination known for its hiking trails and rock formations, is located approximately 140 miles northwest of Little Rock.

McGann is currently being held at the Washington County Detention Center and is expected to appear in court on Friday. Authorities are still working to determine a motive for the killings, and autopsy results are pending. The Brink family’s daughters, while physically unharmed, are receiving support as they cope with the emotional trauma of losing their parents.