Australian brothers, Callum and Jake Robinson, along with their American friend, Carter Rhoad, were tragically killed during a robbery attempt while on a surfing trip in Baja California, Mexico. The incident occurred after the group was reported missing on April 27 when they failed to return to their accommodation. Mexican state prosecutors identified the motive as an attempted robbery, and the assailants have been apprehended.

The bodies of the Robinson brothers were discovered in a well following their disappearance, leading their parents to travel to Mexico to confirm their identities. Callum and Jake, known for their passion for surfing and their vibrant presence, are mourned by their community and family. Debra Robinson, their mother, highlighted their love for life and surfing in her tribute.

Carter Rhoad, also an enthusiastic surfer and a budding entrepreneur engaged in his apparel company, Loma Apparel, and a business consulting firm, was remembered for his relationship-building skills and love for the ocean. Rhoad was planning to marry his fiancée, Natalie Weirtz, in three months, a future tragically cut short by the incident.

The Australian government, with statements from Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, alongside Mexico’s foreign minister, Alicia Barcena, extended condolences to the families of the victims. The international and local surfing communities, including those in Ensenada and San Diego, have honored their memory through tributes and fundraising efforts for causes important to the victims.

This follows other incidents involving Australian surfers in Mexico, including the 2015 killings of Adam Coleman and Dean Lucas, underscoring a tragic pattern of events involving tourists in the region.