Los Angeles – A man in Mexico has been arrested in connection with the murders of two Australian brothers and their American friend while on a surfing trip. This arrest comes after the three surfers disappeared on April 27 during their trip in Ensenada. The suspect allegedly confessed to his girlfriend that he was responsible for the crime, according to court testimony.
The man, Jesús Gerardo Garcia Cota, reportedly showed up at his girlfriend’s house on April 28 and confessed to her that he had done something to “three gringos.” He then admitted to her that he had killed them. After the confession, he took her outside to her car, which was found to have the stolen tires from the victims’ truck. Authorities had previously stated that the surfers were likely targeted because of their truck’s tires.
The bodies of the three men, Callum Robinson, Jake Robinson, and Jack Carter Rhoad, were found in a remote well about 50 feet deep in a rugged hillside area near Ensenada. Authorities allege that the victims were killed while trying to fight off the suspects. The suspects reportedly took out a gun and shot the victims when they resisted against the theft of their property.
Garcia Cota, his girlfriend, and his brother Cristian Alejandro were all arrested in connection with the murders. Garcia Cota is facing prosecution for the “disappearance committed by private individuals,” with homicide charges expected to follow. The prosecution is also gathering evidence to charge two other suspects who are in custody for alleged possession of methamphetamine.
This is not the first incident involving surfers being targeted in Mexico. In 2015, two Australian surfers were killed in a similar manner in the state of Sinaloa. Authorities have suggested that these incidents are linked to highway bandits. With millions of international visitors, including U.S. tourists, visiting Mexico each year, concerns about safety and security for travelers continue to be a paramount issue.
Overall, the arrest in connection with the murders of the three surfers sheds light on the dangers that travelers may face in certain areas. The investigation and prosecution of the suspects involved will be crucial in ensuring justice for the victims and their families.