FBI takes over jurisdiction in murder probe of Ohio native found dead in Luquillo

Puerto Rico Police Superintendent Joseph González Falcón (Facebook via Dept de Justicia de Puerto Rico)

By THE STAR STAFF

The FBI has assumed jurisdiction in the homicide investigation involving Tyler Wilken, a 35‑year‑old Ohio native whose body was found three weeks ago at a beach in Luquillo, Puerto Rico Police Superintendent Joseph González Falcón confirmed on Monday.

González said federal agents are assisting with the technical analysis of evidence, including data extracted from Wilken’s cellphone and information gathered from telecommunications antennas. Meanwhile, Puerto Rico police continue conducting interviews and collecting additional evidence.

“I can guarantee that we are taking every necessary measure to clarify this case and bring justice and some comfort to the Wilken family,” González said in a radio interview.

He emphasized that the Puerto Rico Police Department has the resources to handle a case of this magnitude.

“Puerto Rico has the third‑largest police department in the United States, after New York and Chicago,” González noted. “We have all the technology and equipment required.”

Wilken, originally from Highland County, Ohio, moved to Puerto Rico in 2024. According to his girlfriend, Iva Mo, she left him at the Luquillo beach on July 8 so he could camp for several days. Before disappearing, Wilken sent her text messages describing a man who “howled like a wolf” and set off fireworks near the campsite.

“He said something like, ‘If the one who howls comes back tonight, I’ll probably go see what’s going on,’” Mo told investigators.

Wilken’s body was later found roughly 300 meters from his campsite. González declined to provide details about the crime scene but confirmed that officers have interviewed campers, area residents, and others who may have passed through the location. Police have also obtained footage from nearby security cameras.

Wilken died from a gunshot wound to the back of the head -- a type of killing González described as uncommon in Puerto Rico, particularly involving tourists or recent arrivals. He said there is no evidence linking Wilken to criminal activity.

Investigators have identified a person of interest, though authorities have not released further details. González confirmed that Wilken’s wallet has not been found but cautioned against concluding that robbery was the motive.

“This will not be a simple investigation, but I can guarantee that we will dedicate all necessary resources to solving this crime,” he said. “That is my commitment.”

The police superintendent added that he has spoken with Wilken’s father, who expressed encouragement about the progress of the investigation.