Mexican authorities have confirmed the tragic fate of three tourists who went missing in northern Mexico.
The bodies of American Carter Rhoad and Australian brothers Callum and Jake Robinson were discovered at the bottom of a well in Baja California, ending a harrowing week-long search.
The trio vanished while on a surfing vacation near the tourist hub of Ensenada, prompting a multi-day search effort.
Identification of the bodies was facilitated by the victims’ parents, eliminating the need for genetic testing.
Officials from the Baja California state Attorney General’s Office pledged a thorough investigation to bring those responsible to justice.
Autopsies revealed that all three victims had suffered gunshot wounds, further intensifying the gravity of the situation.
Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers expressed profound condolences to the families, acknowledging the unimaginable ordeal they had endured.
He condemned the incident as “absolutely horrendous” and conveyed the solidarity of the entire nation with the grieving families.
Authorities have arrested three individuals in connection with the crime, with indications pointing towards a botched carjacking as the motive.
A burnt-out vehicle believed to have been used by the victims was discovered nearby, adding to the grim details of the case.
The disappearance of the three surfers and the subsequent discovery of their bodies shed light on the persistent safety concerns in Baja California.
Despite the region’s popularity among tourists, it remains plagued by violence, prompting warnings from the U.S. State Department urging travelers to exercise caution or reconsider visiting altogether.
The tragic outcome serves as a sobering reminder of the risks associated with travel to certain parts of Mexico.
