Three men on trial for killing Australian surfers and American in Baja California

Three men have begun a criminal trial in the resort town of La Paz, Baja California, for the 2024 murders of Australian brothers Jake (30) and Callum Robinson (33) and their American companion Jack Carter Rhoad (30). The trio was shot dead after an alleged robbery while surfing at a popular beach in the Mexican state, an incident that drew international attention and highlighted the region’s rising crime rates. Prosecutors allege that the defendants, all Mexican nationals, opened fire on the victims as they disembarked from their surfboards, subsequently stealing personal belongings and fleeing the scene.

The trial, held in a court that serves both local residents and the influx of tourists drawn to the area’s surf culture, will consider forensic evidence, eyewitness testimony and video footage captured by nearby beachgoers. Authorities have emphasized that the proceedings aim to deliver justice and deter future violent crimes targeting foreign visitors. The defendants remain in custody pending a verdict, which is expected later this year.