American surfer Kurt Van Dyke killed in Costa Rica has shocked the surfing community after authorities confirmed his death in an apparent robbery attempt.
The 66-year-old athlete was found dead at his apartment in Cahuita, a coastal town on Costa Rica’s Caribbean side. Officials from the Costa Rica Judicial Investigation Agency (OJI) responded to a call around 10:50 a.m. on Saturday and confirmed his death at the scene.
According to preliminary findings, two armed individuals allegedly entered the apartment and threatened Van Dyke with a firearm while he was accompanied by a woman. Investigators believe the suspects stole valuables before fatally attacking him.
Authorities reported that Van Dyke died at the scene. The woman present suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Officials have not released her identity.
Kurt Van Dyke Killed in Costa Rica: Investigation Underway
The Judicial Investigation Agency stated that Van Dyke’s body has been sent for forensic examination to determine the exact cause of death. Meanwhile, authorities continue efforts to identify and locate the suspects involved.
Investigators described the incident as a suspected robbery that escalated into violence. However, they emphasised that the investigation remains ongoing.
Van Dyke was born in California into a well-known surfing family. Over the years, he earned recognition not only for his skills in the water but also for promoting surfing in the Caribbean region.
Following the news, his brother Peter Van Dyke paid tribute, describing him as a generous and kind person. “Kurt would never hurt anybody. He was a very benevolent, giving person who would help everyone,” he said.
Local authorities have urged anyone with information about the incident to cooperate with the investigation.
