Mexican authorities are currently investigating the disappearance of two Australians and an American who went missing over the weekend in the Pacific coast state of Baja California. The state’s chief prosecutor, María Elena Andrade Ramírez, stated that they have found tents and questioned three individuals in connection with the case. While it is unclear whether the three people questioned are considered suspects or witnesses, some have direct ties to the case while others are indirectly linked. Evidence found with the abandoned tents was somehow connected to the missing individuals, who were believed to be surfing and camping along the Baja coast near the city of Ensenada.
The three foreigners did not show up at their planned accommodations over the weekend, sparking concerns about their whereabouts. Andrade Ramirez mentioned that a working team of investigators is at the site where they were last seen, gathering potential leads and evidence that could help in locating the missing individuals. She also stated that there is important information that cannot be made public at this time, as all lines of investigation remain open until the three are found. While the area is known for being frequented by drug cartels, the authorities are exploring all possibilities and have not ruled out any scenarios.
The mother of the missing Australians, Debra Robinson, made a public appeal for help in locating her sons, Jake and Callum. Robinson mentioned that Callum is diabetic and the American accompanying them was named Jack Carter Rhoad. The U.S. Embassy in Mexico City did not immediately confirm the identity of the American. The U.S. State Department has acknowledged reports of a missing U.S. citizen in Baja but did not provide further details. Andrade Ramirez mentioned that her office is in contact with Australian and U.S. officials but emphasized that the delay in reporting the disappearance has made the search more challenging.
Unfortunately, it was not until the last few days that the missing individuals were reported missing, resulting in vital time being lost in the search efforts. This delay has complicated the investigation and has increased concerns about the well-being of the three surfers. In 2015, two Australian surfers were killed in western Sinaloa state, across the Gulf of California, in a case involving highway bandits. The similarities between the cases have raised fears about the potential dangers that surfers and travelers may face in certain regions of Mexico. Authorities stress the need for caution and vigilance when traveling in areas where criminal activities are prevalent.
As the search for the missing individuals continues, authorities are working tirelessly to gather information, locate potential witnesses, and follow any leads that could lead to finding the Australians and the American who disappeared in Baja California. The uncertainty surrounding their disappearance has sparked international attention and concern for their safety. The families of the missing individuals are anxiously waiting for any updates and are hoping for a positive resolution to the ongoing investigation. The collaboration between Mexican, Australian, and U.S. officials is crucial in ensuring a coordinated effort to bring the missing surfers back home safely.
