Police in Puerto Rico have identified a person of interest in the killing of an Ohio man.
Tyler Wilkin, 35, was found shot dead on July 10 at a campsite in Luquillo, Puerto Rico.
The FBI is assisting local authorities with the investigation into Wilkin's death.
Police in Puerto Rico said Thursday, July 30, they have a “person of interest” in connection with the killing of a man from Southwest Ohio, according to the Puerto Rican newspaper “El Nuevo Dia.”
Tyler Wilkin, 35, of Wilmington, was shot dead execution-style at Playa La Selva in Luquillo, just five minutes from his campsite, on July 10, his friends
His last text message to them was sent just before 2 a.m. that day, and his body was found hours later.
Police Superintendent Joseph Gonzalez told El Nuevo Dia the FBI is assisting the investigation.
“What I can say is that there is a person of interest.
I’ve been in contact with the FBI for technical support and collaboration,” he told the publication.
“I can’t go into too much detail, but I’ve been talking to the investigators, receiving updates on the case and I don’t want to interfere with the investigation.”
Wilkin’s friends are publicly pleading for anyone with information to come forward.
Wilkin moved to Puerto Rico in January 2024.
The outdoorsman loved swimming, hiking, fishing, and camping.
In the days before his death, friends say Wilkin organized a group camping trip to Playa La Selva − a remote but popular spot with designated campsites where families camp regularly.
He had been there before and always felt safe, according to his friends.
That night before he died, Wilkin messaged friends about hearing howling outside his tent − and what sounded like fireworks.
His messages continued the following night.
He told a friend that someone he called “the howler” was back − and two hours later sent one final message.
Hours after sending those last words, Wilkin was found dead.
Friends and family say they have received little information from investigators.
Wilkin's friends have set up a GoFundMe to hire a private investigator.
Enquirer media partner Fox19 provided this report