The physical characteristics of three bodies found in Mexico’s Baja California state resemble those of two Australian brothers and their American friend who went missing while on a surfing trip, local authorities said.
Forensic tests are being conducted following a days long search for Callum, 33, and Jake Robinson, 30, as well as American Carter Rhoad, 30.
The trio were on vacation surfing near the popular tourist town of Ensenada, about 90 minutes south of the US-Mexico border on the Pacific coast.
The bodies were found near the town of Santo Tomas, about 30 miles (45 kilometers) southeast of Ensenada, in a spot that is difficult to reach but popular with surfers.
Investigators continue to search an area where bodies were found for additional evidence. Source: Supplied / Supplied
State prosecutor Maria Elena Andrade said that the bodies, , were in an “advanced state of decomposition,” complicating identification.
“However,” she added, “given their clothing and certain characteristics such as long hair and specific physical descriptions, we have high probability” that the bodies are in fact those of the three missing men.
While another body was found at the site, investigators determined that it had been there for some time and had no connection to the latest disappearances.
Mexican authorities, , were carrying out the investigation in collaboration with the US Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Australian consulate.
The white ute was found burned out at a ranch, in the vicinity of where the brothers went missing. Source: AAP / Supplied Image
Andrade said one line of inquiry is whether the deaths resulted from an attempt to steal their pickup truck. The vehicle — which had been burned — was found nearby.
ABC reports mexican authorities have filed criminal charges , understood to be the equivalent of kidnapping, against one of three people being questioned in relation to the men’s disappearance.
There are unconfirmed reports whether the other two individuals are facing charges, which SBS News is not able to independently verify at this time.
What have authorities said?
Officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said it was obviously a distressing time for the family but the agency was in constant contact.
Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong reiterated that the government was doing everything it could to support the family.
“I can indicate that our embassy in Mexico, as well as the Australian Federal Police, are working in support of local authorities, that my department is providing consular support to the families concerned,” she told reporters on Saturday.
Health Minister Mark Butler said the department was trying to glean as much information as possible from Mexican authorities to inform the family.
“This is deeply distressing to the Australian community, particularly the family and friends of these two young Australians” he told reporters on Saturday.
The brothers’ family is understood to be travelling from Perth to Mexico to be closer to the investigation, Nine Network reported.
The US State Department is also monitoring the investigation.
Both US and Australian authorities have urged people to exercise a high degree of caution when travelling to Baja California “due to the threat of violent crime”.
– With additional reporting from Reuters.
As a surfer myself, it’s always heartbreaking to hear about tragedies like this. The authorities’ efforts in identifying the bodies are commendable. My thoughts are with the families of the missing individuals during this difficult time.
“I believe there is a high probability that the bodies discovered in Mexico are indeed those of the missing Australian brothers and their American friend. It is a tragic situation, and I hope the investigation provides clarity and closure for their loved ones.”