Trial Begins Over Alleged Murder of Australian Surfing Brothers in Mexico
Three men have gone on trial in Ensenada, Baja California, for the alleged murders of two Australian surfers and their American friend. The defendants, Jesús "El Kekas" Gerardo, Irineo Francisco and Ángel Jesús, face prosecution for over 200‑year jail sentences, according to Mexican authorities.
The victims – Callum Robinson, younger brother Jake Robinson, and U.S. friend Carter Rhoad – were found in a well with gunshot wounds to the head, days after they vanished during a surf trip last year.
Prosecutors argue the killings stemmed from a botched robbery that supposedly involved the three defendants, while defence lawyers have requested more evidence to prove this theory. The case is unfolding amid claims that some witnesses may have been intimidated by contacts linked to the accused.
Both Jakes and Callum’s parents, Martin and Debra Robinson, took to the courtroom on Tuesday, calling for the defendants to understand the human impact of their actions. “They were our sons, deeply loved and full of promise,” the parents said, as reported by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
The 2024 incident triggered the conviction of Ari Gisell, the ex‑girlfriend of one accused, on charges related to the murders. She received a 20‑year sentence for her role in the killings.
Mexico’s prosecution, however, insists the ringleader, one of the defendants, could face an additional 168‑year sentence. The court session will continue over four weeks, with dozens of witnesses expected to testify before a judge.
The case has highlighted the rare but growing danger tourists may face in Baja California’s otherwise tranquil surf communities.
Callum Robinson had represented Australia’s national lacrosse team and lived in San Diego as a professional athlete, while Jake was on a trip to start a medical career back home. Their victim’s close friend, Carter Rhoad, was reportedly few months away from his wedding when he disappeared.
Callum (left) and Jake Robinson were on a surfing trip in Mexico when they were allegedly killed during a suspected carjacking last year (Instagram@Callum10Robinson).
