The shocked parents of two Australian brothers believed to have been murdered while on a surfing holiday abroad have set up a foundation in their honour.
Brothers Jake, 31, and Callum Robinson, 32, and their American friend Jack Rhoad, 30, disappeared on April 27 while in Mexico’s Baja California province.
A week later, their bodies were found at the bottom of a 15-meter-deep coastal camp site, where they were last seen after a large-scale police operation.
More than $520,000 was raised to help Martin and Debra Robinson, who said they have set up a foundation with the money to continue their sons’ legacy through philanthropic activities.
Perth-based non-profit Indian Ocean Paddlers shared a heartwarming update on behalf of the family on Monday.
The group was one of thousands of donors who supported the family and helped with high costs, such as repatriation and funeral expenses.
The Robinsons are “eternally grateful” for the support they have received.
“We are overwhelmed by the love we have received in Australia,” the couple wrote.
‘To realize this initiative, we have set up a foundation in honor of Callum and Jake, guided by people who know how to care for others.
Martin and Debra Robinson (pictured center) have established a foundation to honor their beloved sons Jake (left) and Callum (right)
Although it is still early days, we hope to have a webpage available soon where you can find information about how your precious donation money is being spent.
“Your support is more than just a financial gift; it is a testament to the power of community and the belief that together we can create lasting change.
“You have played a crucial role in making our vision a reality. For that we will be eternally grateful.”
The Robinsons also shared how they are coping with the loss of their sons four months ago.
“Not a day goes by that we don’t think of our beautiful sons, the connections they had with people like you, and the lives they could have led,” they wrote.
The shocked parents rushed to Mexico to identify the bodies of their dead sons.
According to police, Jake and Callum were shot after they tried to fend off thieves who wanted to steal the tires from their pickup truck.
Concerned family and friends raised the alarm when the brothers stopped posting on social media and forgot to check in to their booked Airbnb in the nearby beach town of Rosarito.
Since then, five people have been arrested and charged for their alleged involvement in the disappearance of the three men.
Among them are Jesús Gerardo Garcia Cota, his brother Cristian Alejandro and Gerardo’s girlfriend Ari Gisel, 23.
Jake (pictured right) and Callum (pictured left) Robinson, 30 and 32, and their American friend Jack Rhoad, 30, disappeared while in Mexico’s Baja California province on April 27.
Authorities are expected to charge Jesús Gerardo Garcia Cota with murder and he is due to appear in court in November.
Jake and Callum were buried in June at a private gathering in Sorrento, north-west Perth.
The brothers, who completed school, went on to have successful careers.
Callum was a talented lacrosse player who represented Australia and played professionally in the US.
Mr and Mrs Robinson said the funds raised will be used for various philanthropic activities in honour of Callum (pictured left) and Jake (pictured right)
Jake was a doctor and was about to start a new job at a hospital on the other side of the country in Geelong, south-west of Melbourne.
He had traveled to the US to visit his brother.
At the memorial service, Mrs. Robinson urged relatives to honor their sons in their own way.
“We have cried many tears and we will cry many more… We miss you beyond words,” she said.