An Ohio resident living in Puerto Rico was found shot to death in an apparent execution-style killing at a remote beach on the island, authorities reported. Tyler Wilkin, 35, was discovered around 6 a.m. on July 10 near Playa la Selva, a secluded area in the island’s northeast. A passerby walking along the beach found his body, which sustained a single gunshot wound to the back of the head.

Local police suspect Wilkin was shot at close range in what they characterize as a deliberate killing. Wilkin had been camping alone at the site after being dropped off by his girlfriend, Iva Mo, on July 8. He had stayed there for two days prior to his death.

Friends say Wilkin expressed concerns about a man he referred to as “the howler,” who was allegedly causing disturbances near his campsite. According to messages Wilkin sent the night of his death, the individual had been setting off fireworks and making howling noises, likened to a wolf. Wilkin’s last communications referenced this behavior, including a message reading, “The howler is back!” followed hours later by another remark noting the man was becoming more rowdy.

Wilkin’s girlfriend confirmed these were the final messages received from him, stating that around 2 a.m., he had commented on the escalating disturbance before contact was lost. Authorities continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting as they seek information about the person referred to as “the howler” and any potential motives.