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Costa Rica Police Probe Killing of U.S. Surfer and Hotelier Kurt Van Dyke After Reported Home Invasion

Security video shows suspects fleeing in two vehicles, including a car reported stolen from the home.

Overview

  • Van Dyke, 66, was found under a bed in his Puerto Viejo de Talamanca apartment with signs of asphyxiation and multiple stab wounds, according to a preliminary police report.
  • His 31-year-old girlfriend told authorities two armed men entered while she was showering, tied and assaulted her with zip ties, and she survived the attack.
  • The intruders allegedly stole valuables including a 2013 Hyundai Elantra, and footage reportedly captured the suspects leaving in two vehicles.
  • No arrests had been announced as of the latest reports, and local tourism leaders voiced shock after a long stretch of relative calm in the beach community.
  • Van Dyke owned a longstanding budget hotel in Puerto Viejo and was a respected surfer known as “King,” with a Bay Area family background that includes the Van Dyke Ranch.