The remains of three individuals discovered near Ensenada, Mexico, have been confirmed as those of missing surfers from Australia and the United States, who were apparently victims of a fatal carjacking, authorities announced. The identifications were made by family members who were called in by Baja California state prosecutors.
The bodies were found in a remote well approximately 50 feet deep in La Bocana, south of Ensenada, with the cause of death determined to be gunshot wounds to the head, as reported by the Ensenada medical examiner’s office.
The victims were identified as Jake and Callum Robinson from Australia, and Jack Carter Rhoad from the U.S., with at least two of them believed to have been residing in San Diego. The motive behind the killings was revealed to be carjacking, with a particular interest in the wheels of the pickup truck used by the surfers.
Missing Surfers Found Dead in Mexico Identified
Prosecutors disclosed that evidence at the scene included the trio’s encampment, spent gun shells, bloodstains, and signs indicating bodies had been dragged, further pointing towards the violent nature of the incident.
Three individuals are currently under interrogation in connection with the case, with two of them detained on methamphetamine-related charges and the third subject to a kidnapping warrant. Chief state prosecutor María Elena Andrade Ramírez has emphasized the commitment to ensure that those responsible face legal consequences. Additionally, a fourth body was found alongside the surfers in the well, potentially unrelated to the case, as per authorities’ statements.
The disappearance of the three men was noted on April 27 when they failed to return to their Airbnb rental near the border in Rosarito. The incident has raised concerns about violence attributed to the drug trade, although such occurrences are considered uncommon in Baja tourism.
Despite the popularity of the Baja coast among surfers, recent advisories from the U.S. State Department have cautioned against travel to the region due to escalating cartel violence. This tragic event underscores the complexities and risks associated with travel in certain areas, despite their appeal to tourists and adventurers alike.
