Ohio — A remote beach in northeastern Puerto Rico has become the focus of an ongoing homicide investigation after 35-year-old Ohio native Tyler Wilkin was found shot execution-style while camping alone. As police continue searching for answers, newly revealed text messages sent just hours before his death have added another layer of mystery to the case.
Final Messages Mentioned a Man Called “The Howler”
According to family and friends, Wilkin had been camping by himself at Playa la Selva, a secluded beach surrounded by forest, after his girlfriend dropped him off on July 8.
During his stay, he reportedly told friends about a man he referred to as “the howler.”
Wilkin claimed the unidentified individual had been setting off fireworks near his campsite and howling like a wolf, creating an unsettling atmosphere during the trip.
On the night of July 9, he sent a message that read:
“The howler is back!”
A short time later, he sent what would become his final message. According to his girlfriend, Iva Mo, Wilkin texted around 2 a.m., saying:
“This guy is getting rowdy, LOL.”
She said that was the last message anyone received from him.
Girlfriend Knew Something Was Wrong
Mo said Wilkin had a daily routine that immediately raised concern when it was broken.
She explained that he always texted her “Good morning, love” around 6 a.m. When that message never arrived on July 10, she feared something had happened.
Only a short time later, a beachgoer walking through the area discovered Wilkin’s body in nearby mangroves at approximately 6 a.m.
Authorities said he had suffered a single gunshot wound to the back of the head, and investigators believe the shooter fired from close range, leading police to describe the killing as execution-style.
Investigation Continues With No Arrests
Police have not announced any arrests, and investigators have released few details about possible suspects or a motive.
Mo believes her boyfriend may have been the victim of an attempted robbery, although authorities have not publicly confirmed that theory.
She said it has been difficult to accept that someone with so much life ahead of him could have been killed so suddenly.
According to family members, they are frustrated by what they see as a lack of progress in the investigation and continue urging authorities to identify whoever was responsible.
Family Launches Fundraiser to Seek Answers
In hopes of advancing the investigation, relatives created a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for a private investigator.
The fundraiser states that the family wants to ensure every possible lead is explored in the search for answers. It describes Wilkin’s death as an unimaginable loss and says the family is determined to pursue justice on his behalf.
According to the campaign, “Tyler deserved a full life, and he deserves for every possible avenue to be explored.”
Remembering Tyler Wilkin
Originally from Wilmington, Ohio, Wilkin moved to Puerto Rico in January 2024, where he embraced life on the island and enjoyed spending time outdoors and near the beach.
His obituary describes him as someone who approached life with enthusiasm, optimism, and a sense of adventure.
He is survived by his parents, an older brother, a twin sister, younger sisters, and many other loved ones, all of whom continue mourning his loss while hoping the investigation will provide long-awaited answers.
As detectives continue their work, the mysterious references to “the howler” remain one of the final known clues from the last hours of Tyler Wilkin’s life.
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