A woman has been taken into custody in connection with the death of an American man in a tropical beach town in Costa Rica, which is quite popular among tourists.
Vladimir Muñoz, the Deputy Director of the Costa Rica Judicial Investigation Agency, announced in a video statement that a woman named Ortiz was arrested around 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday. This follows the discovery of Fleming, a 74-year-old American, who was found dead on September 27 at a condominium close to the beach.
The tragic event occurred in Playas del Coco, which is located on Costa Rica’s northern Pacific coast, specifically in a well-frequented tourist region, at approximately 4:50 p.m. on the same day.
Muñoz explained that Fleming reportedly met Ortiz online before picking her up near Playas del Coco and taking her to his apartment. Details suggest that a dispute ensued between the two, during which Ortiz allegedly struck Fleming, leading to a fatal head injury. She faces allegations of stealing his bank cards, though it’s unclear if they were actually used.
The woman managed to evade authorities until her arrest on Tuesday.
During the time of the incident, Ortiz was described as wearing blue denim shorts, sandals, and a white bra adorned with chain-like accessories. Surveillance footage shows her walking down a street with another woman, who has also been apprehended.
According to Muñoz, the arrest was made possible thanks to confidential tips provided to law enforcement. Ortiz was taken into custody at a residence in San Felipe de Alajuelita.
