Three Bodies Found in Search for Missing Surfers in Mexico

Mexican authorities have recovered three bodies near Ensenada, Baja California, during the search for two Australian brothers, Jake and Callum Robinson, and their American friend, Jack Carter Rhoad, who went missing on a camping and surfing trip. The bodies were discovered at the bottom of a well at Punta San José in Santo Tomás, close to a remote surfing spot known as "Lighthouse."

Why this matters: The disappearance and potential murder of foreign tourists in Baja California highlights the ongoing struggle with drug-related violence in the region, which can have significant implications for the safety of travelers and the local economy. This incident may also lead to increased scrutiny of the Mexican government's efforts to combat cartel activity and ensure tourist safety.

The bodies were found nearly a week into the search for the three men, who were last seen in the area on April 27. Mexican authorities have not yet positively identified the deceased, but officials say the older remains of a fourth person may have also been found. The search was conducted by the Mexican National Guard, Mexican Army, Baja California Attorney General's Office, and Ensenada Fire Department rescue team.

The three tourists had planned to camp near the beach last weekend and then stay at an Airbnb in Rosarito, but they never checked into the rental. Callum, 33, also failed to show up for work in San Diego as scheduled. Baja California prosecutors said three people were under investigation in connection with the disappearance, including a 23-year-old woman who was detained with drugs and a cellphone that had a wallpaper photo of one of the missing men.

The parents of the Australian brothers expressed their heartbreak over the situation. "Callum and Jake are beautiful human beings. We love them so much and this breaks our heart," said Martin and Debra Robinson in a statement to Australian media. "Surfing is a passion they both share. Our only comfort right now is that they were together doing something they passionately love," the parents added.

Mexican officials are coordinating with the FBI in San Diego and the U.S. State Department, as well as consulate officials of both the U.S. and Australia. Baja California Gov. Marina del Pilar Ávila promised a thorough investigation and said that anyone responsible for a crime will be"punished to the fullest extent of the law."

Baja California had one of the highest murder rates in Mexico last year, largely due to drug violence as warring cartel factions fight for control of the area. However, violence affecting foreign tourists in the region has been rare. Thediscoveryof the bodies marks a tragic development in the search for the missing surfers, as their families and friends await official identification of the remains and further details from the ongoinginvestigation.

Key Takeaways

• Mexican authorities find 3 bodies near Ensenada, Baja California, in search for 2 Australian brothers and 1 American surfer.
• Bodies found in a well at Punta San José, close to a remote surfing spot known as "Lighthouse."
• Authorities have not yet positively identified the deceased, but a 4th person's remains may have also been found.
• 3 people are under investigation, including a 23-year-old woman detained with drugs and a cellphone linked to the missing men.
• Baja California Gov. promises a thorough investigation and punishment for those responsible.