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Photo via Red Cross.

U.S. citizen killed in Costa Rica



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Updated on Wednesday, January 29, 2025
P
ublished on Wednesday, January 22, 2025
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff




A U.S. citizen, identified as Brooks (69), was fatally attacked Tuesday at his home after allegedly intervening to protect his maid from an intruder.



According to a report from the Red Cross Accidents Monitor Department, a 911 call was received at 6:30 a.m. reporting a stabbing incident at a residence in the Barrio Jesús community in Atenas District, Alajuela Province. 



When paramedics arrived at the scene around 6:45 a.m., they found Brooks unresponsive, in cardiac arrest, and not breathing. He was pronounced dead on arrival (DOA), indicating he had passed away before medical personnel could assist. 



Preliminary reports indicate that allegedly the maid's boyfriend, a man surnamed Artavia-Artavia (26), entered Brooks' property and became involved in an altercation with her. 



Artavia reportedly began attacking the maid, prompting Brooks to intervene. During the altercation, the Artavia allegedly stabbed Brooks



Red Cross paramedics coordinated with local police and the Judicial Investigation Organization (OIJ) to address the incident.



Later that day, police apprehended Artavia, who was taken to the Public Ministry in Alajuela. He remains in custody while awaiting a judge’s decision on pre-trial measures related to the murder charge.









In a brief statement, OIJ officials confirmed the victim’s body was transported to the Judicial Morgue in Heredia for a forensic examination. 


The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have maintained confidentiality regarding the case. Only the victim’s family members are authorized to request further details. 


The name of the maid was not released by authorities. 


The U.S. Embassy provides guidance and support to families of U.S. citizens who die abroad, depending on whether the deceased was accompanied by family and whether they were visiting or residing in Costa Rica. 


"The Consular Section can provide information on funeral homes that arrange local burials or prepare remains for shipment to the United States," the Embassy’s website states. "The Consular Section also issues a Consular Report of Death Abroad, serving as a U.S. death certificate for legal purposes." 


The Embassy noted it does not fund funeral, repatriation, or burial expenses for Americans who die overseas. However, families are not required to travel to Costa Rica to manage arrangements. Embassy representatives can act on their behalf to coordinate with local authorities and service providers. 


For further information, individuals can contact the U.S. Embassy at 506-2519-2590 or 506-2519-2093. An after-hours emergency line is available at 506-2519-2000. 


The Judicial Investigation Organization (OIJ), a division of Costa Rica’s Supreme Court of Justice, conducts criminal investigations. Officers in this operational unit have nationwide police authority. 



 

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What have you heard about U.S. citizens encountering tragic incidents in Costa Rica? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com



  


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