Source; RCMP

Human remains found by municipal workers in Vancouver Island are those of a 40-year old surfer from Costa Rica who had been missing for more than a month.

According to a recent news report filed by Sarah Petrescu of the Times Colonist, the oldest newspaper in Western Canada, Marlon Orozco-Castillo was reported missing by his family after a dispute. The surfer was dealing with personal and familial turmoil, and his loved ones believed he may have returned to Costa Rica.

In early July, Nanaimo city workers were clearing brush in a wooded area where they eventually discovered skeletal remains. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) arrived on scene with personnel from the coroner’s office to investigate. Weeks later, they confirmed the identity of the deceased.

The RCMP had also considered the possibility of Mr. Orozco-Castillo having retreated to the most isolated surfing spots of British Columbia.

Below is the text of the missing notice issued by the RCMP.

2016-05-13 09:25 PDT

File # 2016-14022

The Nanaimo RCMP were contacted on May 4th, 2016, that Marlon OROZCO-CASTILLO had not been seen since May 1st. He was in the midst of dealing with some personal matters and had moved out, and his family was concerned. There was some initial thought that he had returned to Costa Rica, but it is now believed that he may still be in the area, reported Cpl. Jon STUART. This investigation is still pursuing all avenues to determine his location.

Marlon enjoys surfing, and may be drawn to areas that are frequented by surfers. He is a 40 year old Hispanic male, described as 5’6″, 145lbs, and was last seen wearing a red tank top and plaid jacket.

The Costa Rica Star herewith extends condolences to Mr. Orozco-Castillo’s family. May he rest in eternal peace.