An arrest has been made in the case of an American citizen’s death in a Costa Rican beach town known for its attractions to tourists.
Vladimir Muñoz, Deputy Director of Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Agency, announced in a video statement that a woman named Ortiz was apprehended at around 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday. This arrest is related to the killing of a 74-year-old American, Fleming, discovered dead on September 27 in a condominium by the beach.
The incident occurred at Playas del Coco, located in a heavily visited area on the northern Pacific coast of Costa Rica, according to local authorities. It took place at 4:50 p.m. on the specified date.
Documentation from Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Agency includes surveillance footage showing the woman linked to the homicide.
Fleming reportedly met Ortiz online and drove her to his residence after picking her up near Playas del Coco. A conflict ensued between them, during which Ortiz is alleged to have inflicted a fatal head wound on Fleming. She faces accusations of taking his bank cards. The use of these cards remains unclear.
The woman had evaded capture prior to her Tuesday arrest. At the time of the alleged crime, surveillance footage captured her wearing blue denim shorts, sandals, and a distinctive white bra with chain-like decorations. She appeared on video walking with another woman, who is also now under arrest.
Confidential tips led to Ortiz’s apprehension at a house in San Felipe de Alajuelita, according to Muñoz.