The parents of Australian brothers Jake and Callum Robinson have issued an emotional statement as the Mexico murder trial of three accused men moves towards its final stages.
Martin and Debra Robinson travelled from Western Australia to Ensenada for the trial, which began in early September, almost two-and-a-half years after their sons and their American friend, Carter Rhoad, disappeared during a surfing trip.
Their bodies were later found at the bottom of a well. Prosecutors allege the three men were shot during a robbery in which the attackers wanted the tyres from the ute the group was travelling in.
The vehicle was subsequently found burnt out, and the three defendants were charged with murder and aggravated robbery.
Verdict expected before Robinsons return to Australia
The judge has told the court that closing arguments will be heard next Thursday. During proceedings, Mrs Robinson thanked him for his time and attention before asking whether a verdict could be delivered before she and her husband leave Mexico.
The couple have flights back to Australia on October 9. The judge agreed to give his decision in the morning before their departure.
Speaking outside court, Mrs Robinson said the past month in Ensenada had been exceptionally difficult for the family.
“It’s been an incredibly difficult and emotional few weeks here in Ensenada,” she said.
“We are deeply grateful for all the support and kindness we have received since we have been here.
“To everyone back home in Australia and around the world, we feel your love and your arms around us. And it is giving us strength during some difficult days.”
The Robinsons said they would not comment further until the verdict. “Right now our focus is on Callum, Jake and Carter, on honouring them, their memory and seeing the process through,” Mrs Robinson said.
Families describe devastating loss
Mr Robinson previously told the court that life had been “hell” since his sons’ deaths.
“It’s hard enough for a parent to lose one child but we lost two sons in horrific circumstances, and it’s left a huge hole in our lives,” he said.
He said the family did not “hold any animosity against the people” responsible, but added: “What we can’t understand is how they could rob the world of two beautiful men who had such bright futures.”
Mr Rhoad’s mother gave evidence by video link, saying authorities had told her that each of the alleged victims was shot three times.
“Each of the boys was shot behind the head. I’m not an expert but to me it looked like an execution,” she told the court.
