Callum Robinson, along with his brother Jake and friend Jack Rhoad, were murdered in Mexico during a surfing trip. This article explores the details of this tragic incident and remembers the lives lost.
Callum Robinson, a former Australian national lacrosse player residing in San Diego, embarked on what was meant to be a “trip of a lifetime” to Mexico with his younger brother, Jake, and their American friend, Jack Rhoad. Tragically, this adventure ended in their deaths near Ensenada, Baja California, a popular tourist destination unfortunately also known for cartel violence. The three men disappeared on April 27th, and their bodies were later discovered in a deep well with gunshot wounds to the head. A fourth set of remains found in the well was deemed unrelated to the incident.
Callum Robinson (left) and his brother Jake.
The Victims: Callum and Jake Robinson, and Jack Rhoad
Callum Robinson, 33, was a standout athlete who played on the Australian national lacrosse team and graduated from Stevenson University in Maryland. He was remembered by friends and colleagues as a loyal friend, a stellar student, and someone who could “light up a room.” Callum had aspirations of returning to Australia to raise a family. He was also diabetic, a fact his mother shared publicly while desperately seeking information about her missing sons.
Callum Robinson, a talented athlete and beloved friend.
Jake Robinson, 30, was an avid traveler who had recently spent two months exploring Indonesia. He was about to begin a new job at a hospital in Geelong, Australia, following the Mexico trip. Friends described him as kind and remembered his infectious laugh and smile. The brothers had attended the Coachella music festival before heading south to Mexico.
Jake Robinson, an adventurous spirit with a kind heart.
Jack Carter Rhoad, 30, a San Diego resident and friend of Callum, worked for a technology services company and had founded a clothing company. A former professional soccer player in Guatemala, he was also known for his humanitarian work in South Africa, Guatemala, and Mexico. Tragically, he was due to marry his fiancee in August, a wedding that would never take place.
Jack Carter Rhoad, a humanitarian and soon-to-be husband.
Suspected Carjacking and Arrests
Mexican authorities believe the three men were killed during a carjacking after resisting the theft of their pickup truck. Three suspects have been detained in connection with the murders.
Repatriation and Fundraising
The process of repatriating the bodies to their respective countries has been a significant undertaking. Fundraising efforts in both the US and Australia have generated almost $300,000 to cover the substantial costs associated with repatriation, funerals, and legal fees.
The tragic deaths of Callum and Jake Robinson, and Jack Rhoad, serve as a stark reminder of the dangers that can exist even in popular tourist destinations. Their families and friends are left to mourn the loss of these three vibrant lives cut short in a senseless act of violence.
