Mystery Woman Arrested After American’s Death in Costa Rica

A woman has been arrested in connection with the death of a 74-year-old American in Playas del Coco, a tropical beach town popular with tourists in Costa Rica.

In a video statement, Costa Rica Judicial Investigation Agency Deputy Director Vladimir Muñoz said a woman identified as Ortiz was taken into custody around 12:30 p.m. Tuesday. She is accused in the killing of Fleming, an American who was found dead Sept. 27 at a condominium near the beach.

Costa Rican authorities said the incident occurred at about 4:50 p.m. on Sept. 27 in Playas del Coco, a seaside community in a popular tourist region along the country’s northern Pacific coast.

Muñoz said Fleming met Ortiz online and picked her up near Playas del Coco before taking her to his apartment. The pair later became involved in a dispute, during which Ortiz allegedly struck Fleming, causing a fatal head injury, according to Muñoz. She is also accused of taking Fleming’s bank cards, although authorities have not said whether the cards were used.

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The woman remained at large until authorities arrested her Tuesday.

At the time of the alleged homicide, she was wearing blue denim shorts, sandals and a white bra with chain-like accessories. Police-released security footage shows her walking down a street with another woman, who has also been arrested.

Muñoz said confidential tips provided to law enforcement led to the arrest. Ortiz was taken into custody at a house in San Felipe de Alajuelita.