Tyler Wilkin, a 35-year-old Ohio man who moved to Puerto Rico in 2024, was found dead during a camping trip at Playa La Selva in Luquillo. Reports say he suffered a single gunshot wound to the back of his head on July 10. The FBI has confirmed it is assisting Puerto Rican authorities, while local reports say investigators have identified a person of interest. A close friend, Jules Santiago, described the shock of learning that Wilkin had been killed.

The discovery at Playa La Selva

Tyler Wilkin was found dead on July 10 at Playa La Selva in Luquillo, Puerto Rico, according to reports. The 35-year-old was reportedly camping at the beach when investigators discovered him with a single gunshot wound to the back of his head.

The circumstances have been described in reports as an execution-style killing, though the investigation remains ongoing. Authorities have not publicly established a motive or released a complete account of what happened before Wilkin’s death.

The investigation and federal assistance

Police in Puerto Rico are investigating the homicide, and the FBI has confirmed that it is assisting with the case. The federal agency’s involvement places additional investigative resources behind the inquiry, but no further details about its role were provided.

A local report said police have a person of interest in the case. That designation does not indicate that an arrest has been made or that prosecutors have filed charges. Investigators must still determine how the shooting occurred and whether any suspect can be formally linked to the killing.

A friend recalls the moment of the call

Jules Santiago, who lives in Puerto Rico and knew Wilkin for about two years, said she was overwhelmed when she learned he had been found dead. She said she repeatedly asked whether the victim was Wilkin before she could process the news.

“When I found out, I went into complete shock. My thoughts were paralyzed. I asked the same question three times just to make sure it was Tyler.”

Santiago said the news changed the atmosphere around her immediately and left her crying. She also said she had never imagined that someone she knew could be murdered in such circumstances.

Wilkin’s life in Puerto Rico

Tyler Wilkin grew up in Ohio before moving to Puerto Rico in 2024. Santiago described him as full of life and said she considered the killing especially difficult to understand because it did not fit her impression of him.

Santiago contrasted Wilkin’s death with the kinds of homicides she said people commonly associate with drug activity or individuals involved in criminal conduct. Her comments reflected the personal shock among friends, not a finding about the motive or circumstances of the case.

Fundraising as the case develops

A fundraiser intended to support an investigation into Wilkin’s death has raised tens of thousands of dollars, according to the report. The effort comes as relatives and friends seek answers while Puerto Rican authorities and the FBI continue examining the homicide.

The fundraiser’s reported growth underscores the level of concern surrounding the case, but it does not resolve the unanswered questions. Further information about the person of interest, the motive and any potential charges will depend on the continuing investigation.

Summary

The reported killing of Tyler Wilkin at a Puerto Rico beach remains under investigation. Federal agents are assisting local authorities, and police reportedly have a person of interest, but officials have not publicly provided a motive or announced charges. Friends, including Jules Santiago, are awaiting answers while a fundraiser supports efforts related to the case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Tyler Wilkin?

Tyler Wilkin was a 35-year-old man who grew up in Ohio and moved to Puerto Rico in 2024.

Where was Wilkin found?

He was reportedly found dead at Playa La Selva in Luquillo, Puerto Rico, while on a camping trip.

Is the FBI investigating the case?

The FBI confirmed that it is assisting in the investigation being conducted by authorities in Puerto Rico.

Has anyone been charged?

The available report says police have a person of interest, but it does not state that an arrest or criminal charge has been announced.

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