In a tragic turn of events, three bodies have been discovered in a popular tourist area in Mexico, where an American and two Australians went missing last week during what seemed to be a camping and surfing trip. The local prosecutor's office made this announcement in a statement released late on Friday.

The missing individuals were identified as American Jack Carter Rhoad, 30, and Australian brothers Callum Robinson, 33, and Jake Robinson, 30. The last known sighting of them was on April 27, as stated by the Baja California state prosecutor's office. Unfortunately, they did not show up at their planned accommodation over the past weekend, raising concerns for their safety.

During the search for the trio, investigators made a grim discovery of three bodies in a pit. However, officials have not yet confirmed whether these bodies belong to the missing men. To determine their identities, forensic tests will be conducted by a state laboratory, as mentioned in the prosecutor's office statement.

Authorities are continuing their investigation in the rugged area where the bodies were found, searching for any additional evidence that may shed light on the case. The bodies were discovered on a rugged hillside near the tourist town of Ensenada in Baja California, roughly 90 minutes south of the U.S.-Mexico border. Video footage captured the rescue team installing ropes to enter the pit, while the site was cordoned off by the police. A navy boat was also observed in the nearby sea.

The bodies were found near Santo Tomás, close to the remote seaside location where the missing men's tents and a burned-out Chevrolet Colorado pickup truck were previously located on Thursday.

Details regarding the injuries sustained by the victims or the cause of death remain unclear at this time. María Elena Andrade Ramírez, the chief state prosecutor, mentioned that there is vital information that cannot yet be disclosed to the public. She also emphasized that all lines of investigation are open, including the involvement of drug cartels in the area.

As the investigation progresses, three individuals have been arrested and charged with a crime equivalent to kidnapping, according to Baja California prosecutors. Further charges may follow, but no additional information regarding the suspects' connection to the case has been provided at this stage.

The Baja California Attorney General's Office has maintained communication with the FBI and the victims' relatives through consular agencies, highlighting the international cooperation involved in the investigation.

This unfortunate incident brings attention to the State Department's travel advisory, which includes Baja California in its "reconsider travel" category due to concerns of crime and kidnapping. In 2015, two Australian surfers were killed in a similar incident in western Sinaloa state, emphasizing the ongoing threats travelers may face in certain regions of Mexico.

As the mystery surrounding the disappearance and subsequent discovery of the bodies deepens, the authorities vow to leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of justice and answers for the families affected by this tragedy.

Note: The information provided in this article is based on the details mentioned in the original text.