A chilling case has unfolded in Baja California, Mexico, where the lives of two Australian brothers and their American friend were tragically cut short during a surfing trip. New details have emerged following a court hearing for Jesus Gerardo “N,” also known as “El Kekas,” the primary suspect in the deaths of Callum and Jake Robinson, and Jack Carter Rhoad. The suspect has been ordered to stand trial for the crime, and disturbing details of his alleged confession have come to light.
The court proceedings in Ensenada, Baja California, followed the grim discovery of the three surfers’ bodies last Friday. According to reports, the suspect’s girlfriend provided crucial testimony, stating that “El Kekas” confessed to the murders upon returning to their home from the area where the surfers were camping. As reported by the BBC, the 23-year-old woman told investigators that the suspect arrived at her house on April 28 and admitted to doing something to “three gringos,” a slang term for foreigners.
When questioned further by his girlfriend, “El Kekas” allegedly stated, “I killed them,” according to court testimony. Adding a further disturbing detail, the suspect reportedly showed her new tires, which prosecutors believe were stolen from the pickup truck of the three surfers. The motive for the heinous crime is believed to be robbery, specifically the theft of the surfers’ vehicle.
Photos of the foreign surfers who disappeared are placed on the beach in Ensenada, Mexico, Sunday, May 5, 2024. Their bodies were later found.
Photos of surfers Callum and Jake Robinson, and Jack Carter Rhoad, displayed on a beach in Ensenada, Mexico, after they were found dead.
The prosecutor’s office has confirmed that “El Kekas” will be prosecuted for “disappearance committed by private individuals,” with homicide charges expected to follow as the investigation progresses. Authorities have indicated they are actively gathering evidence to potentially charge two additional suspects who are currently detained on alleged methamphetamine possession charges, suggesting a possible connection to organized crime.
The three victims were camping in a secluded beachside location, a detail that highlights the vulnerability of travelers even in popular tourist destinations like Baja California. While Baja California is favored by tourists for its beautiful beaches and proximity to the U.S., it is also unfortunately known as one of Mexico’s most violent states due to the presence of organized crime. Although tourists are not typically the direct targets of cartel violence, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the underlying dangers.
The bodies of the Australian Surfers Killed In Mexico and their American friend have been released to a funeral home in Baja California. From there, they will be transported to the United States, allowing their grieving families to finally bring them home.
The parents of Callum and Jake Robinson, Debra and Martin Robinson, addressed the media with heart-wrenching statements, urging people to honor their sons’ memories by embracing life to the fullest. Speaking from California, Debra Robinson, visibly overcome with emotion, described the profound loss and the immense grief their family is experiencing. She remembered Callum as a “lovable, larger-than-life character” and Jake as a “happy, gentle and compassionate soul.”
Photos of the foreign surfers who disappeared are placed on the beach in Ensenada, Mexico, Sunday, May 5, 2024. Their bodies were later found.
Debra and Martin Robinson, parents of Australian surfers killed in Mexico, speak to the media about their sons Callum and Jake.
Callum Robinson was also remembered by the lacrosse community. The Premier Lacrosse League expressed its deep sorrow, and his former lacrosse coach at Stevenson University, Paul Cantabene, shared his devastation at the tragic news. Jake Robinson was remembered for his passion for surfing and his pursuit of a medical career. Jack Carter Rhoad was engaged to be married, and a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support his fiancée, reflecting the widespread sympathy and support for the victims and their families.
This tragic incident of Australian surfers killed in Mexico has resonated internationally, highlighting the dangers that can be faced even while pursuing leisure activities in foreign countries. The focus now remains on ensuring justice for Callum Robinson, Jake Robinson, and Jack Carter Rhoad, and supporting their families through this incredibly difficult time.
