The bodies of two Australians and an American who were on a surfing trip in Mexico were found in a remote well, decomposing after being dumped by thieves who killed them to steal their truck, specifically for the tires. Authorities in Baja California released details of the slayings, but are awaiting confirmation of the victims’ identities. Family members are viewing the bodies to see if they can be identified visually, with genetic testing as a possibility if needed.
The men, brothers Jake and Callum Robinson from Australia and American Jack Carter Rhoad, were camping and surfing along the coast before they went missing. According to chief state prosecutor MarĂa Elena Andrade RamĂrez, the attackers wanted to steal the foreigners’ vehicle and its parts, leading to a confrontation that turned deadly. The assailants killed the victims and disposed of their bodies in a well.
The site where the bodies were found near Santo Tomás raised concerns about the safety of camping in remote areas along the coast. Despite the risks, adventure was a central part of the victims’ lifestyle. Mourners and demonstrators gathered in Ensenada to mourn the deaths and demand safer beaches.
Baja California prosecutors were questioning three individuals in connection with the case, some of whom were found with methamphetamines. One suspect, identified as Jesús Gerardo, alias “el Kekas,” was believed to have directly participated in the killings. The investigation continues as the community mourns the tragic loss of the surfers.
The American who was with them was identified as Jack Carter Rhoad, but the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City has not yet confirmed this information. The U.S. State Department acknowledged reports of a missing U.S. citizen in Baja, but did not provide any additional details.
In 2015, Australian surfers Adam Coleman and Dean Lucas were tragically killed in western Sinaloa state, located across the Gulf of California, also known as the Sea of Cortez, from the Baja peninsula. Authorities attributed their deaths to highway bandits and three suspects were arrested in connection with the case.
