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U.S. Surfing Figure Kurt Van Dyke Killed in Costa Rica Home Invasion as Police Hunt Intruders

Authorities are reviewing CCTV alongside forensic evidence with no arrests or motive announced.

Overview

  • Van Dyke, 66, was found Saturday under a bed in his Cahuita apartment with signs of asphyxiation and multiple stab wounds, officials said.
  • Two armed men allegedly forced their way in, threatened the couple, and confined them for minutes before the attack, according to the OIJ.
  • His 31-year-old girlfriend, identified as Arroyo, was restrained with zip ties and treated for non-life-threatening injuries, police said.
  • Valuables and a 2013 Hyundai Elantra were taken; security cameras reportedly captured the suspects fleeing in two vehicles.
  • Van Dyke was a longtime Puerto Viejo hotel owner from a renowned Santa Cruz surfing family, and local tourism leaders called the killing a shocking exception in the area.