A Mexican judge sentenced three men on Friday, October 16, 2026, to more than 158 years in prison each for the 2024 murders of two Australian brothers and one American citizen. The defendants, identified by authorities as Jesus Gerardo "N" (also known as "El Kekas"), Irineo Francisco "N," and Angel Jesus "N," were convicted of homicide, aggravated robbery, robbery with violence, and vehicle theft with violence.
The case originated from a 2024 surfing trip in the state of Baja California involving Jake Robinson, 30, Callum Robinson, 33, and Carter Rhoad, 30. The three tourists were reported missing after they failed to check into their scheduled accommodation. Following a search involving the FBI, their bodies were discovered on May 3, 2024, at the bottom of a clifftop well.
Investigators determined the victims were shot in the head on April 27, 2024, during a robbery targeting their pickup truck while they were camping near Ensenada. The truck was later discovered burned several kilometers away. Judge Raul Hernandez Arellano stated during the sentencing that the severity of the crimes was increased because the victims were unarmed and the attack occurred in a remote area at night.
The case has influenced travel advisories and perceptions of safety for tourists in Baja California. Following the killings, the U.S. State Department updated its guidance to urge Americans to reconsider travel to the state due to risks of kidnapping and crime. The region, while containing popular tourist destinations like Ensenada, is ranked among the most violent states in Mexico according to the report. The conviction of the three men follows a previous 20-year sentence handed down in November 2025 to Gisell Silva, who pleaded guilty to charges related to the robbery.
The legal proceedings are not yet fully concluded, as the defense team has indicated its intention to appeal the 158-year sentences. Under Mexican law, the defense has a 10-day window from the date of sentencing to file these appeals. During the trial, which consisted of 24 hearings starting on September 7, the families of the victims participated both in person and remotely from Australia. A foundation has been established in the names of the Robinson brothers to support community initiatives in their honor.