Trial Begins for Suspected Killers of Australian Surfers in Mexico

Three men have gone on trial in Ensenada for the alleged 2024 murders of two Australian brothers and their American friend. The bodies of Callum Robinson, his younger brother Jake, and American surfer Carter Rhoad, all in their early 30s, were discovered at the bottom of a well with gunshot wounds to their heads, following a presumed car‑jacking during a surf trip in Baja California.

Prosecutors are demanding jail sentences in excess of 200 years for each defendant and an additional 168‑year term for the alleged ringleader. The accused—Jesús “El Kekas” Gerardo, Irineo Francisco and Ángel Jesús—have also faced charges of violent robbery and auto theft.

Parents Martin and Debra Robinson have spoken at the hearing about the profound personal impact of the loss, urging the men to see the human consequences of their actions. The courtroom shifted to a smaller venue after witnesses alleged intimidation by associates of the defendants.

The four‑week, judge‑only trial will see dozens of witnesses give evidence. Prosecutors maintain the murders stemmed from a bungled robbery, while defence lawyers argue the evidence is insufficient to confirm that theory.

Callum was a National Lacrosse team member and lived in San Diego as a professional athlete, while Jake had come from Australia for the surfing trip and was scheduled to start a medical career upon return. Their friend Rhoad was murdered months before his wedding.