Callum and Jake Robinson’s parents speak from Mexico saying ‘the world has become a darker place’

Max Corstorphan
The Nightly
The parents of the two Aussie brothers murdered in Mexico have spoken of their heartbreak in their first interview since their family was torn apart.

The parents of murdered Australian brothers Callum and Jake Robinson have broken their silence, sharing an emotional tribute to their sons.

The Perth-born brothers, Callum, 33, and Jake, 30, along with their American friend Jack Carter Rhoad, 30, fell victim to a bungled robbery while camping at San Miguel beach in the Mexican state of Baja California. The killers reportedly spotted their pick-up truck and tents, leading to a fatal confrontation.

Speaking from San Diego, California, on Tuesday Martin and Debra Robinson shared their heartbreak over the devastating loss of their sons.

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“It is with heavy hearts that we share the news that Callum and Jake have been murdered. Our hearts are broken and the world has become a darker place for us,” Mrs Robinson said.

“Now it’s time to bring ... them home to family and friends - and the ocean waves in Australia. Please live bigger, shine brighter and love harder in their memory.”

She also thanked those who extended condolences and support during this trying time.

Reflecting on their sons’ achievements, Debra highlighted Callum’s vibrant personality and sporting prowess, including his professional lacrosse career. Describing Jake as a “happy, gentle, and compassionate soul,” who was dedicated to both surfing and his career in medicine.

“Callum was a lovable, larger-than-life character and considered the United States his second home. Known as the Big Koala, he played professional lacrosse in the PLL and represented Australia in the World Championships and always found time to coach junior teams,” she said.

“Jake was a happy, gentle and compassionate soul who was pursuing a career in medicine. Jake’s passion was surfing and it was no coincidence that many of the hospitals that he worked in were close to surfing beaches.”

Mr Robinson went on to thank the Government and authorities for the support they have received since their sons went missing.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is liaising with Mexican authorities to help repatriate the bodies of murdered Perth brothers Callum and Jake Robinson.

The parents of Callum and Jake Robinson, who were were killed during a surfing trip in Mexico, have spoken for the first time.
The parents of Callum and Jake Robinson, who were were killed during a surfing trip in Mexico, have spoken for the first time. Credit: 7NEWS/7NEWS

As crowdfunding in support of the Robinson family topped $400,000, Australia’s ambassador to Mexico Rachel Moseley said the embassy, DFAT and the Australian Federal Police were “providing all possible support, including (the) journey home”.

”We continue to work with Mexico on the investigation, and we thank the authorities for their close cooperation at this very difficult time,” Ms Moseley said on X.

It is understood the brother’s bodies will be taken over the border to San Diego before they are transported back to Australia, according to news reports.

Three Mexican nationals — Jesus Gerardo Garica Cota, also known as El Kekas, his 23-year-old partner Ari Gisel Garcia Cota and Kekas’ brother Cristian Alejandro Garcia — were arrested over their murder.

Jesus Gerardo Garcia faces a “forced disappearance” charge and is set to face court on Thursday. It is reported his charge will be upgraded to murder during his first appearance.

Mexican authorities have not ruled out further arrests in relation to the trio’s murder.

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