American Surfer Kurt Van Dyke Found Dead in Costa Rica, Robbery Suspected

American surfer Kurt Van Dyke, 66, was found dead on Saturday in Cahuita, a Caribbean coastal town in Costa Rica. Authorities are investigating the incident as an apparent robbery.

Incident Details

The Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ) reported the incident around 10:50 a.m. after receiving a call about a man found dead in a room. Law enforcement confirmed the death at the location in the municipality of Talamanca, approximately 105 miles east of San Jose.

According to OIJ spokesman Carlos Valverde, Van Dyke was in his apartment with a woman when two armed men allegedly approached them. Preliminary reports indicate the suspects threatened them with a firearm, held them for several minutes, and stole valuables.

Van Dyke reportedly died at the scene, having sustained asphyxiation and several stab wounds, as stated by the OIJ spokesperson.

The woman present suffered minor, non-life-threatening injuries.

His body has been transported to the forensic morgue for official determination of the cause of death. The OIJ continues its investigation to clarify the circumstances and identify those responsible.

Background

Kurt Van Dyke, originally from Santa Cruz, California, was recognized within the international surfing community. He was known for his participation in competitions and his role in promoting surfing in the Caribbean region.

His brother, Peter Van Dyke, stated to the San Francisco Chronicle that Kurt was "a very benevolent, giving person who would help just about anybody."

Raw Surf, a global media platform, expressed condolences regarding the event, mentioning the Costa Rican surfing community.