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Tragedy at Devil’s Den: Mother Attempted to Save Husband Before Both Were Killed
A heartbreaking detail has emerged in the double homicide at Devil’s Den State Park. Authorities revealed Thursday that Cristen Brink, 41, bravely led her two young daughters to safety before returning to help her husband, Clinton Brink, 43, who had been attacked. Sadly, both parents were stabbed to death.
The couple was hiking with their 7 and 9-year-old daughters when the attack occurred. The children, who were found unharmed about a half-mile into the park, are now being cared for by family. The Brinks also have a third daughter who was not on the hike.
Police have arrested Andrew James McGann, 28, a former schoolteacher, and charged him with two counts of capital murder. McGann was apprehended at a Springdale barbershop after a five-day search aided by over 500 public tips.
Officials say McGann has confessed to the killings. Authorities have stated they don’t believe McGann knew the Brink family and have not yet determined a motive.
McGann appeared in court Thursday, where he was ordered held without bond and assigned a public defender. His arraignment is scheduled for August 25th.
Police confirmed a DNA match between McGann and DNA found at the crime scene. According to police, McGann sustained an injury during the attack, leaving blood evidence that enabled investigators to build a DNA profile. A search of McGann’s Springdale home, roughly 30 miles from the park, uncovered items police say link him to the murders.
McGann resigned from his teaching position at a small Oklahoma school district in May, reportedly to take another job out of state. Authorities say he has no prior criminal record or history of mental illness.
The Brink family released a statement saying the couple died as “heroes protecting their little girls.” The community continues to mourn the loss of this couple, whose selfless bravery in the face of unimaginable violence will not be forgotten.