Podcast Summary: Going West: True Crime - "The Devil's Den Murders (Happening Now)" Episode 526

Host Information:

• Hosts: Daphne Woolsoncroft and Heath Merryman
• Podcast: Going West: True Crime by Dark West Productions
• Release Date: August 5, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 526 of Going West: True Crime, hosts Daphne Woolsoncroft and Heath Merryman delve into the harrowing case known as "The Devil's Den Murders," a double homicide that has shocked the community of Prairie Grove, Arkansas. This episode provides an in-depth analysis of the incident, the victims' backgrounds, the ensuing investigation, and the eventual arrest of the suspect.

The Incident

On July 26, 2025, Clinton (43) and Kristen Brink (41) were hiking with their two young daughters, aged seven and nine, at Devil's Den State Park in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Around 2:30 PM, a hiker discovered the girls in distress, reporting that their parents had been attacked, possibly stabbed ([03:18] Daphne).

Heath emphasizes the brutality of the attack:

"Clinton and Kristen Brink were attacked while hiking in Devil's Den State Park... the suspect is still on the run this morning." ([04:18] He states.)

Within an hour, authorities located the bodies of Clint and Kristen in a secluded, heavily wooded area of the park ([03:43] Heath).

Victims' Background

Clinton and Kristen Brink were described as loving, devoted parents and community members. They had recently moved to Prairie Grove, Arkansas, from San Bernardino, California, bringing with them a history of service in the medical field.

• Clinton Brink: A nurse aide who was transitioning to a milk delivery job at Highland Dairy to stay closer to family.
• Kristen Brink: A former standout volleyball player and nurse, seeking new opportunities in Arkansas.

Their close-knit family was recently engaged (July 4, 2013) and married on September 7, 2014. Friends and colleagues remember them as selfless and compassionate individuals who actively contributed to their communities ([08:05] Daphne).

Investigation and Arrest

Following the discovery of the bodies, Arkansas State Police initiated a manhunt for the suspect. Initial efforts were hindered by the park's rugged terrain, dense vegetation, and lack of cell service. However, DNA evidence at the scene led to a breakthrough.

On July 30, 2025, police arrested Andrew James McGann (28) at Lupita's Beauty Salon in Springdale, Arkansas. McGann was identified through a combination of DNA matching and a partial license plate recovered from his vehicle, a black Kia Stinger with obscured plates ([26:19] Daphne).

Notable Quote:

“Upon this horrific discovery, detectives were then tasked with trying to find an unknown suspect...” ([10:38] Daphne)

Suspect's Background

Andrew James McGann, a fifth-grade teacher with no prior criminal history, had recently relocated to Springdale, Arkansas. His past raised red flags when multiple parents reported inappropriate and predatory behavior during his teaching tenure in Texas and Oklahoma.

• Education and Career: Graduated from Oklahoma State University in Elementary Education. Worked as a substitute teacher in Tulsa County, Oklahoma, before securing positions in Texas and Arkansas.
• Behavioral Concerns: Reports from former students and parents described McGann as overly affectionate with young girls, exhibiting favoritism, and making inappropriate comments such as telling a young girl, "If you were older, I would love to marry you" ([35:19] Daphne).

Motive Exploration

While McGann has not publicly disclosed a clear motive, the hosts discuss potential reasons behind the murders. Given his history of predatory behavior towards young girls, it is speculated that the attacks may have been influenced by an unhealthy obsession or desire to harm.

Daphne questions:

"So, it's impossible not to go there, though, just based on what all these parents are saying and his potential sick interest in little girls." ([46:32] Daphne)

Arrest and Evidence

Police apprehended McGann while he was getting a haircut at Lupita's Beauty Salon. Security footage captured his arrest, where he exhibited calm behavior despite the severity of the charges. Upon searching his vehicle, authorities found significant blood evidence linking him to the crime scene.

Heath summarizes:

"On suspicion of murder, they arrested him and they got his verbal permission to search his vehicle out front. And guess what they found? Significant blood evidence inside." ([28:49] Heath)

Further investigation of McGann’s Arkansas home revealed additional evidence consistent with the murders, including the likely murder weapon ([15:00] Heath).

Community and Family Reactions

The Brink family has been described as warm, humble, and deeply devoted to their community. Friends and family expressed disbelief and sorrow over the tragic loss, emphasizing the Brinks' positive impact on those around them.

Mary, a longtime friend, shares:

"I still can't quite wrap my brain around it. It's just hard to believe. I'm so thankful that the little girls are okay..." ([47:36] Daphne)

The community has rallied to support the family, while also grappling with the unsettling revelation of McGann’s disturbing behavior profile.

Concluding Remarks

The episode concludes with reflections on the senseless nature of the tragedy and the importance of recognizing and addressing predatory behavior early. The hosts extend their condolences to the Brink family and encourage listeners to stay informed and vigilant.

Daphne concludes:

"Clinton and Kristen Brink are remembered by those who knew them as warm, humble and deeply devoted to their family... They died heroes protecting their little girls and they deserve justice." ([44:09] Daphne)

Heath adds:

"If you guys do happen to have any information, please call the Washington County Sheriff's office..." ([51:26] Heath)

Call to Action

Listeners are urged to visit Going West: True Crime’s social media pages for updates, photos, and additional information related to the case. Contributions from the public are encouraged to aid in ongoing investigations.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Heath on the initial manhunt: “Clinton and Kristen Brink were attacked while hiking... suspect is still on the run this morning.” ([04:18])
• Daphne on the victims' character: “They were selfless and unconditional with their love and support for their friends.” ([07:09])
• Heath on the brutality of the crime: “It is a completely random attack...” ([18:42])
• Daphne on McGann’s disturbing appearance: “His mugshot is scary... something so disturbing about his look.” ([28:11])

Note: This summary excludes commercial advertisements and non-content segments to focus solely on the in-depth discussion of "The Devil's Den Murders" case.