For nearly nine months, the story surrounding Kurt Van Dyke’s death was that armed intruders had attacked the California surfer and his girlfriend inside a Costa Rican home. Now, investigators suspect the woman who said she survived the ordeal helped let his attackers in.
Costa Rican authorities arrested the 31-year-old woman, identified by the surname Arroyo, and a 34-year-old man surnamed Gutiérrez on November 12 in connection with the killing. Van Dyke, 66, was found dead on February 14 at a residence in Hone Creek, near the Caribbean surf community of Puerto Viejo.
Arroyo initially told authorities she had been showering when armed men entered the home and restrained her with zip ties. The account suggested a robbery in which she and Van Dyke had both been targeted. She survived without serious injuries.
Investigators now believe she used her close relationship with Van Dyke to help the attackers gain access to the property, according to Costa Rican reporting citing Vladimir Muñoz, deputy director of the Judicial Investigation Agency, known as the OIJ. Authorities also suspect the theft of her car was staged to support her account of being another victim. The vehicle was later recovered without damage.
Behind the alleged plot was an effort to obtain banking access codes connected to Van Dyke’s hotel business, investigators say. He was fatally attacked during the confrontation. Authorities initially reported signs of asphyxiation and stab wounds.
During searches of three properties, agents seized phones and a vehicle allegedly connected to the crime. Investigators are also working to identify two other men suspected of participating, meaning the arrests may be only part of the case.
Van Dyke had spent decades building a life in Costa Rica after growing up in Santa Cruz, California. The Hotel Puerto Viejo owner became a familiar figure in the local surfing community, where he was known as the “King of Salsa Brava” for his skill at the famous break.
His family remembered someone whose generosity extended well beyond the water.
“My brother was a very benevolent, giving person who would help just about anybody,” his brother, Peter, previously told the San Francisco Chronicle.
Both suspects were referred to Costa Rica’s Public Prosecutor’s Office, which will determine the next legal steps. The allegations against them have not been proven in court.
