Ohio Man Found Dead on Puerto Rico Beach After Complaining of 'Howler'

An Ohio man living in Puerto Rico was found shot dead on a remote beach on July 10, according to reports. Tyler Wilkin, 35, was discovered near Playa la Selva in the northeast corner of the island by a beachgoer around 6 a.m. Local police are investigating the death as an execution-style slaying, stating he suffered a single gunshot wound to the back of the head at close range.

Wilkin had been camping alone at the secluded beach for two days after being dropped off by his girlfriend on July 8. In his final communications with friends and his girlfriend, Iva Mo, Wilkin reportedly complained about an individual nicknamed "the howler." This individual was described as lighting fireworks and making wolf-like howling noises near Wilkin's campsite.

"The howler is back!" Wilkin wrote in a message to a friend on the night he was killed. Hours later, he sent another message to Mo stating, "This guy is getting rowdy, LOL." Mo reported that this was the last communication she received from Wilkin. She became concerned when he failed to send his usual morning text.

Wilkin's body was found in the mangroves shortly after 6 a.m. on July 10. As of the latest reports, no arrests have been announced in connection with the murder. Mo speculated that her boyfriend may have been killed during an attempted robbery.

Friends and family have expressed frustration with the pace of the investigation and have launched a GoFundMe campaign. The funds raised are intended to hire a private investigator to "uncover answers and ensure that every possible avenue is explored." The GoFundMe description states, "We lost Tyler far too soon, and the grief left behind is impossible to put into words." Organizers aim to "seek the truth and ensure that Tyler receives the justice he deserves."

Wilkin, originally from Wilmington, Ohio, had moved to Puerto Rico in January 2024. His family described him in his obituary as having an adventurous spirit who enjoyed life by the beach. He is survived by his parents, an older brother, a twin sister, and younger sisters. His family remembered him for his enthusiasm and his ability to make life feel exciting and meaningful.