One of Tyler Wilkin’s close friends, Jules Santiago, shared her shock upon learning of his tragic death in Puerto Rico. Wilkin, 35, was found with a fatal gunshot wound to the back of his head during a camping trip at Playa La Selva in Luquillo.
Santiago, who lives in Puerto Rico, had known Wilkin for two years. Originally from Ohio, Wilkin moved to the island in 2024. A photo shared by Santiago showed them enjoying a night out with friends. Upon receiving the news, Santiago experienced an overwhelming sense of disbelief, asking repeatedly if it was indeed her friend Tyler.
“When I found out, I went into complete shock. My thoughts were paralyzed. The whole room went cold, the energy turned dark, and I started crying,” Santiago recounted.
Reports indicate that investigators found Wilkin with a gunshot wound on July 10. The FBI is assisting in the investigation, with local authorities identifying a person of interest, according to El Nuevo Dia.
Santiago expressed disbelief, stating that it was unimaginable for Wilkin to be murdered. She described Wilkin as full of life, contrasting him with common perceptions of homicide victims being involved in risky activities.
A fundraiser has been set up to support the investigation into Wilkin’s death, raising tens of thousands as the situation continues to unfold.