Parents of killed Perth brothers Callum and Jake Robinson give update
The grieving parents of two Australian brothers killed in Mexico during a surf trip have given a heartwarming update.
The grieving parents of two Australian brothers killed in Mexico during a surf trip have given a heartwarming update after setting up a foundation in their honour.
Perth brothers Callum Robinson, 33 and Jake Robinson, 30, and their friend Jack Carter Rhoad, 33, were allegedly murdered while camping near Ensenada in the Baja California region in late April.
The trio’s bodies were found weeks after their disappearance at the bottom of a four metre cliffside well, near their remote campsite.
Four Mexicans have been arrested over their deaths.
Parents Martin and Debra Robinson said on Monday not a day goes by where they don’t think about their sons in a post shared by Perth not-for-profit group, Indian Ocean Paddlers behalf of the family.
They also gave an update on the generosity people have shown by donating a total of $521,000 through a GoFundMe that has helped with their travel to Mexico to identify the bodies of their sons, funeral costs and legal fees.
They have also used the funds to create a foundation to continue the boys’ legacy through philanthropic activities.
“Debbie and I would like to thank you for the amazing generosity and support you have shown for Callum and Jake Robinson,” Mr and Mrs Robinson said.
“It has now been four months since their tragic deaths at a campsite in Mexico, and not a day goes by when we don’t think about our beautiful sons, the connections they had with people like you and the lives they could have had.”
They said although they can’t thank everyone individually, “we would like you to know that the funds that have been raised will be used for a variety of philanthropic activities that will honour Callum and Jake”.
“To drive this initiative, we have created a foundation as a tribute to Callum and Jake and will be guided by people well versed in caring for others. Although it’s early days, we hope to have a webpage available soon which will provide information on how your precious donation money will be spent.”
Mr and Mrs Robinson expressed their utmost gratitude to those who have donated, adding “your support is more than just a financial gift”.
“It’s testament to the power of community and the belief that together, we can create lasting change. You have played a crucial role in making our vision a reality, and for that, we will be forever grateful.”
The Indian Ocean Paddlers was among thousands of donors, who rallied behind the family to assist with costly expenses, including repatriation and funeral costs.
Mr and Mrs Robinson travelled to Mexico to identify their son’s bodies in the wake of their deaths.
The brothers and their American friend Jack Carter’s bodies were killed in a bungled robbery when the killers drove by and saw their pick-up truck and tents.
They had been camping at San Miguel beach on the Mexican state of Baja California when they vanished on April 27.
Their bodies were found in a well on a cliff nearby after a desperate search was launched when their parents hadn’t heard from them.
Police were able to make the initial three arrests after one of the brothers’ mobile phones was turned back on and pinged a local tower.
Jesus Gerardo, the accused ringleader of the trio also known as “El Kekas”, faced court and is set to remain behind bars until his hearing in November later this year.
He is accused of murdering them, each with a single gunshot to the head, before moving their bodies — possibly with the help of others — 6 or 7km to dispose of them in a well.
Mr Gerardo was arrested along with his brother Cristian Alejandro and then girlfriend Ari Gisel, 23.
In June, prosecutor María Elena Andrade Ramírez announced the arrest of a fourth person. The case returns to court on November 8.