Mother of Slain Australian Surfers Pays Tribute at San Diego Beach
Australian surfers Callum and Jake Robinson, along with American Jack Carter Rhoad, were tragically killed by car thieves in Baja California, Mexico. Their bodies were found dumped in a well near a beachside campsite, sparking outrage over the lack of justice in Mexico for such crimes.
Debra Robinson, the mother of the two Australian surfers, delivered a heartfelt tribute to her sons at a beach in San Diego, expressing her deep sorrow and emphasizing their love for surfing. She urged others to “live bigger, shine brighter, and love harder” in their memory.
Despite the grief and loss, Robinson thanked Australian officials and supporters for their assistance. However, she notably did not thank the local officials in Baja California who eventually found the bodies of her sons and Carter Rhoad.
Prosecutors have identified three potential suspects in the case, two of whom were caught with methamphetamines. One suspect, a woman, was found with one of the victims’ cellphones. The third suspect, known as Jesús Gerardo, alias “el Kekas,” had a criminal record and was believed to have directly participated in the killings.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed his condolences to the Robinson family, acknowledging the nation’s shared grief over the loss of the two brothers. He reflected on his own worries as a parent when his son traveled abroad, highlighting the risks and rewards of exploration.
This tragic incident is not the first involving Australian surfers in Mexico, as in 2015, Adam Coleman and Dean Lucas were killed by highway bandits in Sinaloa state. The lack of justice in these cases has raised concerns about safety and accountability in Mexico.
The Robinson brothers’ bodies will eventually be taken back to Australia, where they will be laid to rest. As the investigation continues and suspects are held, the memory of Callum and Jake Robinson, along with Jack Carter Rhoad, will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved them.
