Surfer Found Dead in Costa Rica

A seasoned surfer from California was tragically murdered at his home in Costa Rica, reportedly during a trespassing incident over the weekend.

Kurt Van Dyke, a 66-year-old expatriate who owned a hotel in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, was discovered dead in his apartment on Saturday. Early reports suggest he suffered from asphyxia and multiple stab wounds.

Van Dyke, originally from Santa Cruz, California, was at home Saturday morning when two armed intruders forced their way inside. According to reports, they confined his 31-year-old girlfriend, who was with him at the time, in a separate room.

While she survived, she recounted the horrifying details to authorities, saying the attackers tied her up with zip ties and assaulted her. Unfortunately, Van Dyke was killed during the incident.

She also mentioned that the men took several of their belongings, including a 2013 Hyundai Elantra.

Security footage captured the suspects fleeing the scene in the Elantra along with another vehicle. So far, no arrests have been made, and the motive for the attack remains unknown.

In a heartfelt message to the Chronicle, Van Dyke’s younger brother, Peter, described him as an incredibly kind person. “Kurt was someone who would help anyone,” he shared. “He was there when you needed him, and those who knew him felt that.”

The local community is still reeling from the news of Van Dyke’s death, which has left many feeling shocked and saddened. Roger Sams, the president of Costa Rica’s Southern Caribbean Tourism Chamber, commented on the situation, saying it’s very upsetting for everyone. “We’ve had a long period of peace and tranquility,” he noted, reflecting on the previously safe atmosphere in the region.

Before relocating to Costa Rica, Van Dyke was a well-known figure in the Santa Cruz surfing community, earning the nickname “King” for his impressive skills in surfing large waves.