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In recent years, Ensenada has reported some of the highest rates of violence in Mexico. In 2023, authorities recorded 2,116 victims of violence in the Mexican state. Many of the homicides were connected to the drug trade.

Ensenada is South of Baja California. Tourists, drawn by the rugged coastline and renowned surf breaks, often find themselves exploring its beauty. 

For three travelers, a surf vacation ended in tragedy. Last month, two Australian brothers, Callum, 33, and Jake Robinson,30, along with their friend Carter Rhoad, 30, started an adventure in Mexico, documenting their escapades on social media.

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Victims of Violence

Callum, an avid lacrosse player, shared glimpses of their journey – from savoring coffee on the beach to bonding with street dogs. Jake was a doctor. And Rhoad was from Atlanta. According to Facebook, he founded popular online apparel company in San Diego.

Their excitement and love for adventure radiated through each post. They were camping and surfing on a remote beach south of Ensenada.

Suddenly the dream excursion went dark on social media. And they never arrived at the Airbnb they had booked at Rosarito Beach.

Concerned relatives received no word from the trio after April 27. A frantic search effort involving local authorities, the FBI, and the Mexican marines began.

Their tents and the burnt-out remains of their white truck near Santo Tomás were found first.

The three bodies were discovered in the same desolate stretch of Baja California where the men had vanished. Mexican officials confirmed that the bodies were found south of Ensenada. And they were all the victims of homicide. 

Three suspects have been arrested and charged with kidnapping.

María Elena Andrade Ramírez, Baja California state's chief prosecutor, claimed that robbery was the motive behind the killings.

President Andrés Manuel López Obrador's pledged to combat the rising crime in Mexico. But so far, the country has near record highs in violence.