A 35-year-old Ohio native living in Puerto Rico was fatally shot during a solo camping trip near the forest-isolated Playa la Selva on the island’s remote northeastern coast. Tyler Wilkin had been dropped off at the campsite by his girlfriend, Iva Mo, on July 8.

Authorities say Wilkin was killed in what appears to have been an execution-style killing, suffering a single gunshot wound to the back of the head at close range.

Wilkin had warned his friends about a man he labeled as “the howler.” According to the police, he was shot once in the back of the head at close range. His body was discovered by a person taking a morning walk along the beach at around 6 a.m. on July 10.

Before his death, Wilkin had told friends about an unidentified man he referred to as “the howler.” According to those close to him, Wilkin gave the man the nickname because he repeatedly howled like a wolf near the campsite. Wilkin also reportedly complained that the stranger was setting off fireworks nearby, creating noise and disturbing the otherwise isolated area.

 

 
 
 
 
 
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The night before he was killed, Wilkin texted a friend, “The howler is back!” Mo also recalled receiving a message from him that read, “This guy is getting rowdy, LOL.” She further added, “And that was the last that we ever heard of him.”

Mo told reporters that Wilkin always texted her “Good morning, love” at around 6 a.m. everyday. When that message never came on July 10, she immediately sensed something was wrong. The case is still under investigation; however, there hasn’t been much development. No arrests have been made in the case.

Investigators have not announced a motive for the murder. Reflecting on the tragedy, Mo said, “To have his entire future just taken away like that in just a split second for what? Like over a wallet or over, I don’t know, for whatever reason, like, it’s just really hard to accept.”

Family friend Lilly Wright later started a GoFundMe after relatives said they wanted to pursue additional investigative resources. the fundraiser initially sought $15,000 to hire a private investigator before increasing its goal to $30,000. At the time of writing, more than $25,000 had been donated.

 

On the fundraiser page, Wright wrote, “We hope that, through this additional support, we can find clarity and honor Tyler’s memory with the dedication and care he deserves.” The campaign also states, “Every additional cent will go directly to Tyler’s family to help with funeral expenses or to support them in whatever way they choose.”

Wilkin had relocated to Puerto Rico in January 2024 in pursuit of his free and adventurous lifestyle. His murder has devastated his family and friends who continue to search for answers as the investigation continues. He is survived by his parents, twin sister, older brother, and younger sisters.

Disclaimer: The Inquisitr could not independently confirm the facts of this incident and is reporting based on the information available.