Costa Rica killing of U.S. surf legend Kurt Van Dyke in violent break-in leaves girlfriend alive as investigators search for suspects (Image Via X/@TMZ_Sports)

Kurt Van Dyke, an American hotel owner from a well-known California surfing family, was killed in Costa Rica this weekend. The 66-year-old was found stabbed and strangled inside an apartment in Hone Creek, Cahuita, on Saturday morning. His girlfriend was discovered tied up but not physically hurt. Local police have started a search for the suspects who carried out the violent attack.Officers reached the apartment around 10:50 a.m. local time after receiving a report of a break-in. They found Van Dyke with multiple stab wounds and clear signs of asphyxiation. Investigators believe two armed suspects entered the home, restrained the woman with zip-ties, and stole valuable items before attacking him. The case has shocked both the local community and people connected to California’s long-standing surf culture. Authorities are now trying to track the suspects, who escaped in two vehicles, including a 2013 Hyundai Elantra taken from the property.

Costa Rica police investigate killing of American hotel owner Kurt Van Dyke near Cahuita tourist area

According to The Tico Times, a Costa Rican newspaper, the suspects fled shortly after the robbery and killing. Police have not publicly identified anyone involved, and the investigation remains active. Reports from Surfer.com said the woman inside the apartment was Van Dyke’s 31-year-old girlfriend. She was showering when the intruders broke in and later tied her up during the attack.Van Dyke had lived in Costa Rica for many years and owned Hotel Puerto Viejo, a property that served visiting tourists near the Caribbean coast. The area sits close to the Panama border and is known for beaches, surfing, and travel activity. News of the killing has raised concern among locals and visitors because the region is usually seen as peaceful.Beyond Costa Rica, Van Dyke was connected to a historic surfing family from Santa Cruz, California. The Van Dyke name has been part of the California surf scene since the 1940s, making his death especially emotional for people in that community. Friends and longtime residents remember him as someone who built a life around travel, ocean culture, and hospitality.Police continue to gather evidence, review possible leads, and search for the attackers. Officials have not shared a motive yet, but robbery appears to be a key part of the case. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as the investigation moves ahead.