Three Men Found Guilty After Two Brothers and Their American Friend Were Killed on a Mexico Surfing Trip

A long-running murder case involving three young travelers has reached a major turning point after a Mexican court found three men guilty of killing two Australian brothers and their American friend during a surfing trip in 2024.

The victims, Jake Robinson, Callum Robinson and Carter Rhoad, had traveled to Baja California, Mexico, to surf and camp along the Pacific coast. Their trip ended in tragedy when they disappeared in late April 2024.

Their bodies were discovered on May 3, 2024, at the bottom of a well near Santo Tomás. All three had suffered fatal gunshot wounds.

A Trip That Never Ended as Planned

Prosecutors argued that the victims were targeted during an attempted robbery. According to evidence presented during the trial, the attackers wanted to steal the surfers’ vehicle and belongings.

The three defendants — Jesús Gerardo García, known as “El Kekas,” Irineo Francisco and Ángel Jesús — were found guilty on October 9, 2026, of the murders and related offenses, including robbery and vehicle theft.

The trial lasted approximately a month and included testimony about the final hours of the three travelers. Prosecutors said the men were killed after the robbery attempt escalated.

Families Travel for Justice

The verdict brought a painful milestone for the families, who have spent more than two years seeking answers.

Jake and Callum’s parents, Martin and Debra Robinson, traveled from Australia to attend the proceedings in Ensenada. After the verdict, they spoke about the devastating loss and the difficulty of accepting that their sons would never return home.

The family emphasized that no court decision could bring the young men back, but expressed hope that the verdict would represent an important step toward accountability.

Carter Rhoad’s loved ones have also endured years of grief following his death.

Sentencing Is Still Ahead

Although the three men have been found guilty, their final sentences are scheduled to be announced on October 16, 2026.

Prosecutors have requested prison terms of up to 210 years for each defendant.

The case has drawn international attention because of the victims’ ages, the circumstances of their disappearance and the devastating impact on their families.

For those who loved Jake, Callum and Carter, the verdict marks a significant development in a painful journey — one that cannot undo the loss, but may bring a measure of accountability.

Source: PEOPLE

Additional source: ABC News Australia

Additional source: Reuters