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Slain Surfers Honored with Memorial Paddle-Out in Baja, Locals Call for Justice

Originally posted on SURFER | By Dashel Pierson | Last updated 5/6/24

Over the weekend, a gathering of northern Baja surfers banded together to honor three travelers who were murdered a week before. A memorial paddle-out was held at Playa San Miguel, in addition to calls for justice and increased safety measures.

Australian brothers Callum (33) and Jake Robinson (30), and American Jack Carter Rhoad (30), were killed while camping at La Bocana, a rural site south of Ensenada. Their bodies were found dumped in a nearby well, and their identities were later confirmed by their families. The cause of death for each was gunshot wounds. Local authorities believe thieves had attempted to steal the tires from their truck, which was found burnt out on a ranch in the area. Three suspects are in custody, and the investigation is ongoing.

Meanwhile, the surf community worldwide is in mourning; and during the demonstrations over the weekend, locals expressed their sadness surrounding the situation, memories of the deceased in the days prior, and demands for action.

Here's a handful of statements from local northern Baja surfers:

“The unfortunate, horrible events that happened to these three guys, we can all relate,” said David Kamena, an America living in northern Baja. “All of us know that camp spot really well. So, this hits home to us. We’re calling to the government for more security. It happens every day all over the world, including the US. But we’re standing up, and saying we don’t like it.”

“This horror story happened to some good people, who in their short stay on the beaches of Ensenada left among those of us who had the opportunity to talk with them a great pleasure of meeting people from another world, admired by our country, wanting to listen to traditional music, eat tacos and surf,” said Beatriz Ibarra, a local surfer with a Master of Science degree. “Today it was them, yesterday it was others, tomorrow we don't want it to be us. We will continue fighting for a Baja California with decent and safe access and space to all beaches.”

“These young men – Callum Robinson, Jake Robinson, and Jack Carter Rhoad – surfed together with a group of us Mexican surfers in the morning at Playa San Miguel, Ensenada B.C.” remembered Miguel Alcázar Sr. “They were very happy, educated, kind and gentle people. We shared waves and anecdotes.”

Alcázar Sr. continued:

“Without a doubt Carter was very happy in Playa San Miguel. First, he had a hard time standing on his board and he fell. Callum and Jake were laughing at him and since Carter was just laughing, I approached him and said, ‘Can I give you a tip? When you catch the wave and stand up, stay low...’ He tried twice and he did it! His friends and I cheered and applauded him. He was still surfing and turned to look at me and he had a face of surprise and happiness. This is how I will remember your friends, who just for that day were also my friends.”