Surfing legend Kurt Van Dyke murdered in Costa Rica

Reference TimelineLast updated FEB 16
SUMMARY

Kurt Van Dyke, a 66-year-old American expatriate, surfing legend, and owner of Hotel Puerto Viejo in Costa Rica, was murdered during a home invasion and robbery on Saturday, February 15, 2026. Two armed intruders entered his home, tied up Van Dyke and his girlfriend, and robbed them of valuables, including a vehicle. Van Dyke was found dead under his bed with signs of asphyxiation and multiple stab wounds. As of the latest reports, no arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing. The incident has shocked the local community and drawn attention to crime in the region.

Timeline

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February 2026 — 3 developments

  1. Further details emerged regarding the incident, including the girlfriend's account of being tied up with zip ties and the theft of a 2013 Hyundai Elantra.

    Further details emerged regarding the incident, including the girlfriend's account of being tied up with zip ties and the theft of a 2013 Hyundai Elantra. Friends and family expressed their grief and remembered Van Dyke as a benevolent person and a surfing legend.

  2. Local and international news outlets began reporting on the murder of Kurt Van Dyke, detailing the events of the robbery and the condition of his body.

    Local and international news outlets began reporting on the murder of Kurt Van Dyke, detailing the events of the robbery and the condition of his body. The Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ) confirmed the preliminary findings and stated that the motive appeared to be robbery.

  3. Kurt Van Dyke was murdered in his home in Hone Creek, Cahuita, Talamanca, Costa Rica.

    Kurt Van Dyke was murdered in his home in Hone Creek, Cahuita, Talamanca, Costa Rica. The incident occurred when two armed intruders entered his residence, tied up Van Dyke and his 31-year-old girlfriend, Arroyo, and robbed them. Van Dyke was found dead under his bed with signs of asphyxiation and multiple stab wounds.

January 1983 — 1 developments

  1. Kurt Van Dyke first arrived in Costa Rica and began his life in the Caribbean region, eventually becoming the owner of Hotel Puerto Viejo.

    Kurt Van Dyke first arrived in Costa Rica and began his life in the Caribbean region, eventually becoming the owner of Hotel Puerto Viejo.