Suspect Charged for Surfers' Deaths in Baja, Cartel Claims Collaboration with Police
Photo: Baja California Attorney General’s Office
In the days following the disappearance, and subsequent deaths, of three traveling surfers in Baja, Mexico, authorities have been on the hunt for answers.
The bodies of Jack Carter Rhoad (30), and brothers Callum (33) and Jake Robinson (30), were found last week south of Ensenada, near where they had been camping and surfing. They were discovered at the bottom of a well with gunshot wounds to the head.
Related: Bodies Found in Search for Missing Surfers in Mexico
Now, authorities on the case have charged one individual in connection with the crime. Per a press release from the Baja California Attorney General’s Office:
“For the crime of forced disappearance committed by private individuals, the Attorney General's Office of Baja California achieved the connection to the trial of Jesús Gerardo ‘N’, alias ‘El Kekas’, who will remain in preventive detention after his involvement in the crime committed to the detriment of two brothers of Australian origin and an American in Ensenada.”
As for the motive behind the heinous crime, the press release also confirmed that the aforementioned assailant, along with others, were after the three surfers’ vehicle. The statement continued: “While the foreigners were camping, they were surprised by Jesús Gerardo ‘N’, and other people, with the intention of stealing their vehicle and due to the reaction of the victims, they deprived them of their lives.”
Related: Slain Surfers Honored with Memorial Paddle-Out in Baja, Mexico, Locals Call for Justice
The area is known for cartel activity, however, according to an anonymous member of the criminal organization speaking to The Daily Beast, this was not their work. In fact, the nameless, alleged cartel member said they worked with authorities.
“They were low-level robbers acting alone. But we handed them over,” he said. “We learned that the cops were looking for the gringos and also began looking for those who were responsible. We called the authorities to let them know where to find them.”
Meanwhile, mourning for the three continues. The parents of Jake and Callum, Australian nationals, traveled to the US and made a statement. “Our hearts are broken, and the world has become a darker place,” said Debra Robinson, the mother.
This is still a developing story. SURFER will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
