The families of two Australian brothers and an American who went missing in Baja California have identified the bodies, according to Mexican officials. The trio, Callum and Jake Robinson, both 30, from Perth, and their friend Jack Carter Rhoad, a US citizen, were killed with gunshots to the head.
Mexican authorities found three dead bodies in a well on an isolated ranch land, six kilometers away from where the missing men’s car was discovered. The victims’ relatives identified the bodies without needing genetic tests, said the state attorney general’s office.
María Elena Andrade Ramírez, the state attorney general, stated that her office is committed to investigating “these unfortunate events until those responsible feel the full weight of the law.”
The investigation suggests that the missing men were attacked by individuals who wanted to steal their car, partly because they wanted the tires. The attackers drove by the travelers’ campsite in their vehicle, approached them, and took out a firearm when resistance was met.
The suspects, three Mexican nationals, have been detained: one has been charged with kidnapping, while the other two are being held for possession of crystal meth. One of the suspects is believed to have directly participated in the killings and has been identified only by his first name, Jesús Gerardo, also known as “el Kekas.”
In response to the tragedy, dozens of mourners, surfers, and demonstrators gathered in Ensenada’s main plaza to voice their anger and sadness. Protesters held signs that read “Australia, we are with you” and “Ensenada is a mass grave.”
The incident has sparked concerns about safety for tourists in Baja California. However, Andrade Ramírez emphasized that the region remains safe for visitors.
In recent years, Mexico has seen a significant increase in homicides and missing persons cases. In 2023 alone, there were over 30,000 reported homicides and more than 100,000 people are still missing.
The families of the victims have expressed their grief, with Callum’s parents stating that they are “shaken to their core” and want justice for their sons’ deaths.
Source: The Guardian
