The horrifying details surrounding the deaths of two Australian brothers and their American friend during a surfing trip in Baja California, Mexico, continue to emerge, as a suspect has been ordered to stand trial. Jesus Gerardo “N,” known by the alias “El Kekas,” a slang term for quesadillas, appeared in court in Ensenada on Wednesday, facing prosecution for the presumed murders of Callum and Jake Robinson, and Jack Carter Rhoad. Their bodies were tragically discovered last Friday after they went missing during their surfing excursion.
The girlfriend of “El Kekas” provided chilling testimony, reportedly telling investigators that he confessed to the murders upon returning to their home on April 28. According to the BBC, the 23-year-old woman stated in court that “El Kekas” arrived at her residence and admitted to harming “three gringos.” When questioned further, he allegedly confessed, “I killed them.” Adding a disturbing layer to the confession, he reportedly showed her new tires, believed to have been stolen from the pickup truck of the three surfers.
The prosecutor’s office has confirmed that “El Kekas” will be prosecuted for “disappearance committed by private individuals,” with homicide charges anticipated to follow as the investigation progresses. Authorities are reportedly gathering evidence to potentially charge two additional suspects who are currently detained on alleged methamphetamine possession charges, suggesting a possible link to wider criminal activity in the region.
The three friends were reportedly camping in a secluded beach area when the fatal attack occurred. Investigators believe the motive behind the violence was robbery, specifically the theft of their pickup truck. The bodies of the surfers were discovered in a shaft atop a cliff, bearing gunshot wounds to the head, confirming the brutal nature of their deaths.
Baja California, a peninsula bordering California, is a popular destination for American tourists seeking beautiful beaches and surf spots. However, it is also unfortunately known as one of Mexico’s most violent states, plagued by organized crime. While tourists are not typically targeted, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers present even in popular tourist areas.
On Tuesday, in a move to bring closure to the grieving families, forensic services released the victims’ bodies to a funeral home in Baja California. From there, the remains will be transported to the United States, where their families are waiting to receive them.
The parents of Callum and Jake Robinson delivered a poignant statement from California, urging those touched by their sons’ story to honor their memory by embracing life to the fullest. Debra and Martin Robinson expressed the profound impact of their loss, stating that “the world has become a darker place” since their sons’ deaths. Martin conveyed heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received from friends and family in both Australia and the United States.
Overwhelmed with emotion, Debra Robinson shared heartfelt words about her sons. She described Callum, 33, as a “lovable, larger-than-life character” renowned for his professional lacrosse career in the United States, where he was affectionately nicknamed “the big koala.” Jake, 30, was remembered as a “happy, gentle and compassionate soul” with a passion for surfing, cricket, and a promising career in medicine. “They were young men enjoying their passion of surfing together,” Debra Robinson stated, her voice filled with grief. “Now it is time to bring them home to family and friends and the ocean waves in Australia.”
Debra and Martin Robinson, parents of Australian surfers Jake and Callum Robinson murdered in Mexico, address the media in San Diego.
The Premier Lacrosse League in the U.S. expressed its condolences on its website, acknowledging the lacrosse community’s heartbreak over the tragic loss of Callum Robinson. Stevenson University in Maryland, where Callum also played lacrosse, mourned the loss of their former player. Head lacrosse coach Paul Cantabene shared his devastation with CBS Baltimore, highlighting the profound impact Callum had on those who knew him.
Callum’s girlfriend shared touching tributes on social media, expressing her shattered heart and eternal love for him. Similarly, the fiancé of Jack Carter Rhoad, Natalie Weirtz, is facing unimaginable grief. A GoFundMe campaign launched to support Natalie has garnered significant support, while another GoFundMe has been established for Rhoad’s family, demonstrating the widespread outpouring of sympathy and support for all those affected by this devastating crime.
The tragic deaths of Callum and Jake Robinson, and Jack Carter Rhoad have sent shockwaves across borders, highlighting the ever-present risks of violence, even in popular tourist destinations like Baja California. As the legal process unfolds and families prepare to bring their loved ones home, the memory of these three young men, who sought adventure and passion in surfing, will undoubtedly endure.
