Mexico surfers murder trial verdict due Friday

A Mexican judge is expected to deliver a verdict Friday in the trial of three men accused of killing two Australian surfers and their American friend in Baja California in 2024.

Australian brothers Jake Robinson, 30, and Callum Robinson, 33, and their friend Carter Rhoad, 30, were shot dead while on a surfing trip to Mexico's Pacific coast. Prosecutors are seeking 150 years in prison for each of the accused.

The prosecution and defence presented closing arguments on Thursday. The judge said he would announce his verdict Friday, and the three defendants will be sentenced the same day if convicted.

The victims were camping in a remote beachside area when they were attacked in April 2024. Their bodies were found dumped in a cliff-top shaft with gunshot wounds to their heads.

Authorities say the men were killed during an attempt to steal their pickup truck, which was later found burned near their bodies. Jesus Gerardo is accused of leading the attack. His surname has not been disclosed for legal reasons.

Martin and Debra Robinson, the brothers' parents, travelled from Australia to Ensenada for the trial, which began on September 8. Rhoad's mother, Page, and his widow, Natalie Weirtz, are due to participate by video call from the United States.