Mexican authorities are still working to develop their case against those allegedly responsible for the deaths of three Australian surfers in Baja California. The investigation has now taken a major step with the indictment. Irineo Francisco, now charged, is the fourth suspect tied to the gruesome slayings. Jake, Callum Robinson, and American friend, Carter Rhoad disappeared while surfing and camping in the area. The search continues with each loved one praying their own will miraculously return safely.
Jesús Gerardo, aka El Kekas, was arrested as the main perpetrator. Until this arrest, the case had received little national attention. Soon after, he was joined by his then-girlfriend Ari Gisell and another person, Ángel Jesús. All three men face very serious charges. These crimes are aggravated homicide, aggravated robbery, violent robbery, grand theft auto and forced disappearance. Ari Gisell faces similar charges, but she has not been charged with forced disappearance.
Details of the Investigation
The investigation is in the hands of prosecutor Miguel Ángel Gaxiola Rodríguez. He has repeatedly stressed that there is no evidence suggesting cartel involvement in this incident. He pointed out that robbery was the main motive behind the violent killings. In particular, the assailants aimed to shoot the tyres out of the car the surfers were in.
“It appears that the perpetrators identified an opportunity for robbery when they encountered the foreigners in a highly isolated location,” – Miguel Ángel Gaxiola Rodríguez
When pressed, the prosecutor disclosed that the killer had shot all three victims in the head. Afterwards, he got rid of their remains in a local well. First, the officials have assembled staggering evidence, from witness testimony to recovery of the victims’ vehicle.
“We have compelling evidence, including witness statements, and we have found the vehicle,” – Miguel Ángel Gaxiola Rodríguez
The most damning evidence about the crime is actually inside a confession from Jesús Gerardo, just days after the murders. His excuse according to the NBC report in court was, “I f**ked up three gringos,” emphasizing his lack of remorse.
Upcoming Court Hearings
Those legal battles are now poised to continue with federal and state court hearings in two different courthouses in Washington, D.C. on July 17. One of the hearings will focus on charges against Ángel Jesús, Jesús Gerardo, and Ari Gisell for forced disappearance. The other will have all four defendants face off against one another with respect to the broader conspiracy charges filed against them.
Then the maximum sentence for aggravated homicide in Mexico is 40 years, but can increase to 60 years in certain cases. Even with the case still unfolding, the community and victims’ families are still seeking justice in and outside the courtroom.
Community Response and Memorials
As a response to this tragic and painful occurrence, the community created and placed a public monument in Punta San José. It includes stunning wooden sculptures in memory of Jake and Callum Robinson, and Carter Rhoad. Antonio Otañez, president of a local surfers’ association, underscored the significance of this memorial. He thinks it shows unity with their Australian and American surfing unions.
“The objective is to ensure that the accused are brought to trial and convicted of the homicide and robbery,” – Miguel Ángel Gaxiola Rodríguez
As the investigation progresses and more details emerge, community support remains strong for the victims’ families during this challenging time. The authorities have made it clear that they are resolutely committed to prosecuting and punishing those at fault for these needless deaths. This case sparked profound outrage from the local community and foreign monitors alike.
