Officials from Arkansas are reporting that what was meant to be a relaxing family hike turned into a tragic ambush when a 28-year-old school teacher allegedly attacked a married couple in front of their children at Devil’s Den State Park.
The Arkansas State Police (ASP) apprehended Andrew James McGan at a Springdale barber shop on Wednesday afternoon. Interestingly, he was in the middle of a haircut when authorities tracked him down following the brutal incident that occurred last Saturday.
McGan faces two counts of capital murder for the deaths of Clinton David Brink, 43, and his 41-year-old wife, Christan Amanda Brink, whose bodies were discovered on a hiking trail. Their daughters, aged 7 and 9, were found unharmed and are now in the care of family, according to law enforcement.
Here’s a brief timeline of what we know about the suspect and the incident.
Saturday, July 26th
2:30 PM CDT – A call came in reporting an attack on the hiking trail at Devil’s Den State Park, prompting responses from EMS and the ASP. Shortly after, search teams discovered the bodies of Clinton and Christan Brink, both victims of apparent stab wounds. Fortunately, their daughter was located nearby, albeit with minor injuries.
By that evening, ASP confirmed a double homicide had taken place and launched a manhunt for an unidentified male suspect. There’s a clear message from Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders: “There’s no mistake. We don’t tolerate violent crimes in Arkansas.”
Sunday, July 27th – Monday, July 28th
Authorities identified the couple as Clinton and Kristan Brink, who had recently moved from South Dakota. It seems they were on a hike when they were randomly targeted.
ASP released sketches of suspects described as white males in their late twenties. They’ve urged anyone who visited the park that day to check any photos or videos they might have, including GoPro footage, for any images of the suspect. Residents in nearby areas with access to security camera footage have been asked to share potential leads.
Colonel Mike Hagar expressed gratitude for the public’s support in pursuing those responsible for this crime. They’re using all available resources to identify and arrest the suspect.
Wednesday, July 30th
By 2:30 PM CDT, McGann was arrested at the barbershop, following over 500 tips and surveillance footage that pointed to him. Police found evidence in both his car and home linking him to the crime scene.
That evening, he was booked into the Washington County Detention Center without bond.
What We Know About McGann
McGann was previously employed as a teacher in Oklahoma until May. He resigned to pursue a position elsewhere, passing all background checks. However, his past was not without scrutiny; he faced complaints regarding inappropriate behavior but was cleared after an investigation. Shortly after, he resigned.
Despite not yet having started a job in Arkansas, officials at Springdale Public Schools confirmed ongoing contact with the investigation but refrained from commenting further.
Thursday, July 31st
On this day, McGann was formally charged with capital murder. Investigators revealed during questioning, he confessed to the crime. They had found a DNA match at the scene confirming his involvement. According to Hagar, McGann admitted his guilt and other evidence seized from his residence also aligned with the attack.
Interestingly, investigators noted that both Clinton and Kristan were attacked, with Kristan trying to return to help her husband after taking their children to safety.
Friday, August 1st
During a court appearance at 9 AM CDT, McGann was informed of his rights and the charges. Prosecutors noted he was unrestrained and a public defender was appointed. His arraignment was scheduled for August 25th.
