Authorities in Costa Rica have released crucial details surrounding the tragic death of renowned surfer Kurt Van Dyke, aged 66, who was allegedly murdered in his home during a violent robbery. According to the Judicial Investigation Organization (OIJ), Van Dyke was taken hostage by at least two armed assailants in the Cahuita sector of Talamanca, Limon province, over the weekend.
The incident occurred on Saturday, March 16, 2024, when the suspects entered Van Dyke’s residence and held him and his girlfriend at gunpoint. Reports indicate that the intruders confined the couple to a room for approximately several minutes while stealing valuables, including the couple’s car. “It appears they killed the man and fled. The woman did not sustain serious injuries; however, the man died at the scene,” authorities stated.
Emergency services responded to a call reporting a death at around 10:50 a.m. Upon arrival, officers discovered Van Dyke’s body beneath his bed, covered with a sheet and a knife placed next to his head. Preliminary investigations suggest that the cause of death was asphyxiation, with multiple stab wounds also noted. The body has been sent to the Forensic Morgue for a definitive assessment of the cause and manner of death.
The girlfriend, aged 31, was reportedly zip-tied and assaulted during the incident, providing a harrowing account of the events to the authorities. Her experience adds a layer of complexity to the investigation, which remains ongoing.
Van Dyke’s brother, Peter Van Dyke, expressed concerns that the circumstances surrounding the murder might be more complicated than initially reported. He revealed that he had spoken to Kurt just days before the incident and described him as being “in good spirits.” While aware of his brother’s girlfriend, Peter stated that he lacked familiarity with her and expressed worries about individuals in the area who may have held animosity towards Kurt. “There are people who like him and there are people who don’t. It was more nefarious,” he added.
Kurt Van Dyke, a U.S. citizen, had established a life in Costa Rica since the mid-1980s and had several business partnerships in the region. Following the incident, the U.S. embassy is reportedly working to arrange the repatriation of his remains. The investigation continues as authorities seek to uncover more information about the assailants and the motive behind this brutal act.
