What began as a peaceful hike in one of Arkansas’ most beautiful parks ended in heartbreaking tragedy for the Brink family—but also in a powerful act of love and bravery.

Clinton David Brink, 43, and Cristen Amanda Brink, 41, were walking along a trail at Devil’s Den State Park with their two young daughters, ages 7 and 9, when they were attacked and killed in what police are now calling a “completely random” act of violence.

According to Arkansas State Police, Clinton was attacked first. Investigators believe Cristen rushed their daughters to safety before returning to help her husband. Tragically, both parents were fatally stabbed.

“Clinton and Cristen died heroes protecting their little girls,” their family said in a statement. “They deserve justice.”

Thanks to the bravery and quick thinking of their mom, the two girls were not physically harmed. They are now in the care of relatives. The couple also has a third daughter who was not on the trail that day.

After a dayslong manhunt, police arrested 28-year-old Andrew James McGann, a newly hired teacher who had recently moved to Arkansas. He was taken into custody at a barbershop in Springdale on Wednesday evening. During an interview with investigators, McGann confessed to the double murder.

“This was a senseless and horrific crime,” said Arkansas State Police Director Col. Mike Hagar. “There is no known connection between the victims and the suspect. It appears to be completely random.”

DNA evidence from the crime scene and wounds on McGann’s hands linked him to the attack. Items found at his home also matched the evidence. Though he had passed background checks in previous school jobs in Oklahoma and Texas, he had faced concerns in one district over classroom management and judgment. He had not yet started his new teaching job in Springdale.

The couple’s daughters were key in helping police identify the suspect. “We are in awe of them,” Hagar said. “The information that they were able to provide started us down this path to make this arrest. It all started with those two little girls.”

Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders expressed deep sorrow over the loss. “One of the worst experiences I’ve ever had was making a phone call to the Brink family earlier this week,” she said. “Our entire state is grieving.”

As the investigation continues and McGann awaits his first court appearance, the Brink family—and their incredible sacrifice—remain in the hearts of many.

Please pray for the Brink family, especially their children, as they walk through this unimaginable grief.