BajaNomad

Duane Curtis; Playa Armenta killing - WAS: Crime in Mulege...

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BajaNomad - 11-16-2006 at 04:25 PM

From:
http://www.race-dezert.com/forum/showthread.php?t=23477&...

-------------

It must also be dawn in Baja. My thoughts are with the drivers who were also awake all night. I hope they're travelling safely. I can't believe I used to think the worst that could happen would be my dad getting in a car wreck or dying naturally. I can't shake the images of the police photos from my mind. The shear horror on his face. It's all I see. When I blink I can change the image to the next picture. And I sit there and think that the killer or killers will never be found. That I can't be there to look for them. That I wasn't there to protect him, or at least maybe make him less of an easy target. And this was a person who would stop and leave food for the junkyard dogs. Bring candy down for the local kids. He'd even pickup hitchhikers, and who knows, maybe that lead to his death?


PLEASE look for an ALL WHITE (grill, bumpers, everything) 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4x4 4.7L V8, with tan leather and a sunroof.
The windows are slighty tinted (from the factory). It may be the Laredo or Limited model?
California License Plate # 5NRK826

It has a black roof rack that is easily visible and a large dent on the rear liftgate.
It also has a large adjustable tow hitch
The radiator core support is also bent and you can see where it was cut off and welded back on.
It has Bilstein shocks and a Rancho Steering Stabilizer

If you see this Jeep please contact the local authorities.
Or call the Santa Rosalia DA Sergio Villareal (011 - 52) 615 - 153 - 0804
Or the U.S. Consulate's office in Tijuana (011 - 52) 664 - 622 - 7439

If you have other information and would like to contact me I can be reached at
951 - 587 - 3842
619 - 933 - 1396 cellphone
gtx510@gmail.com gtx510 @ gmail.com

Hook - 11-16-2006 at 04:37 PM

So unbelieveably sad, especially the perforrmance of the police involved. "Sorry for your loss, but, uh, would you be willing to sell me the Jeep if I find it?" That takes the cake.

That website must be getting hammered by all the B1K fans......incredibly slow loading for me.

Well, this should lay to rest the skepticism of whether it happened or not. Not exactly Mulege, though.........

[Edited on 11-16-2006 by Hook]

[Edited on 11-16-2006 by Hook]

lindsay - 11-16-2006 at 04:42 PM

My boss at work spoke with the victim's grandson yesterday and we were very saddened to hear the details that have now been posted here.

So, as I wrote previously, let's remember this family who are dealing with such a shocking loss. Thank you.

Karyn Ivie - 11-16-2006 at 04:45 PM

Thank you Doug for forwarding these posts and clearing up some of the questions. Now, all Nomads keep an eye out for the Jeep. My deepest condolances to the Family.

BajaNomad - 11-16-2006 at 06:54 PM

More info from Daniel via email this afternoon. Attached is a pic of his father at Playa Armenta taken by a B1000 pre-runner. You can see the Jeep, the roof rack, and maybe the dent. There's a link in his message to the original photo showing more of the surrounding area.

Here's what was sent to me:
-----------

A pre-runner forwarded me this link of my dad on Playa Armenta (Armento?).
The coincidence is blowing my mind. Could you post it?
You can clearly see the roof rack and you can barely see the dent to the
left of the license plate.
http://www.flickr.com/photo_zoom.gne?id=292407181&size=o...

armentapic.jpg - 13kB

Rattlesnake beach, loreto sur

msawin - 11-16-2006 at 10:24 PM

Again, not to challange any person on this board with a post.

I talked again to my next door neighbor in Tripui who left there Monday 4:00 am...

We have at least 5 folks that walk thier dogs to RattleSnake beach every day.. They do talk to folks there.. My Neighbor was down there Sunday morning and spoke with folks and had not heard of any robbery....

I am not trying to dispute a post... I just want people to know what I know of local happenings that I am awear of..

Thanks to all of you that care... I am so sorry to hear of the terrible mess in mulge......

martin-o

jerry - 11-17-2006 at 12:20 AM

what phil s reported about my moterhome and my friends moterhome in loreto is true mine was burgerlizes and trashed dons was missing a big tv and radios i dont have a detailed report yet wants all missing and damaged
several nabores in the area were hit too

yup not the same old baja anymore

KLR650 - 11-17-2006 at 06:53 AM

Could someone please tell me where Playa Armenta is? I don't see it on the map.
I am headed to Baja and will be on the lookout for the Jeep.

[Edited on 11-17-2006 by KLR650]

Summanus - 11-17-2006 at 07:02 AM

KLR650, Playa Armenta is south of Mulege and towards the southern end of Conception Bay. I believe it is just south of Playas Requeson and La Perla.

We should be traveling through there in a week or so. If possible we will post a trip report and any safety concerns.

[Edited on 11-17-2006 by Summanus]

gtx510 - 11-17-2006 at 10:34 AM

I'm Daniel Curtis, Duane was my Father.
Playa Armenta is past those beaches, past Santispac and El Coyote. If I remember correctly, heading south, it's the last beach before Highway 1 heads away from the beach as it goes thru the hills to Loreto. The above pic is take from the 1 heading north.
Shelli(?), the caretaker of the beach, is taking the trailer from us. We still need to get in touch with the Mulege police to claim my father's belongings and see if they have more information. We didn't have time to stop there as our time schedule was very tight. And now I'm stuck back in the states unable to do anything.

PLEASE look for this Jeep!!!!

gtx510 - 11-17-2006 at 10:40 AM

I'm Daniel. PLEASE look for this Jeep. It was seen last Friday out front of a supermarket in Custiad Constitution. The dent and the roof rack are the easier ways to spot it.

Can someone goto the supermarket in Constitution and say if anyone bought a bunch of groceries on Friday?
They would have had his gas money and I'm guessing they were headed for the dirt roads.
I'm stuck here in the states and am unable to do anything.

gtx510 - 11-17-2006 at 10:53 AM

I just received this in an email.

"My wife and I were traveling to our home in Southern Baja and remember
seeing a Jeep of this description after leaving Loreto at 8:00 a.m. the
morning of the 10th. It was somewhere along the straight stretch of road
before you reach the intersection where the highway splits between Ciudad
Insurgentes and Ciudad Constitucion. The Jeep we saw was a Limited and
matches the color description. We may have seen some of the occupants but
not positive if it was this vehicle or a for sure. But we think (again
think) there may have 4 to 5 people in the car with a young hispanic girl of
late teens or early twenty's sitting in the back seat and also possibly a
young child too. I did not get a look at the front seat passengers but made
a comment to my wife that it looked like they had the whole family in the
vehicle. The young women in the back seat turned around and looked at us a
couple times before they pulled off the road letting us by. I do remember
that the girl did turn around and look at us through a tinted rear window of
the same shape as a Jeeps would be and this is what makes me think these
people may be associated to the vehicle that matches the description that we
saw. We hope for your families sake that these people are apprehended for
this crime."


And another.
"Hola! No sé si te sirva decirte esto, pero donde por lo regular siempre aparecen los carros robados son en puerto san carlos y pto adolfo lopez mateos, b.c.s., pero por lo regular los pintan y les arreglan los detalles por los cuales lo pudieran reconocer. Suerte! ojalá y den con lo tipos que robaron y asesinaron al extranjero."


Google translation.
"Hello! I do not know if it serves decirte this to you, but where by always regulating they appear the robbed cars are in port san Carlos and pto Adolph the mateos Lopez, b.c.s., but by regulating paints them and they fix the details to them by which they could recognize it. Luck! hopefully and they give with the types that robbed and assassinated the foreigner."

[Edited on 11-17-2006 by gtx510]

DianaT - 11-17-2006 at 11:11 AM

Daniel,

I am so sorry for your loss---it is just so sad. And it has to be really difficult to deal with everything with you in the states.

Since you requested the information be spread, I posted the jeep information on another board---in an RVing in Mexico forum. Most people who visit that forum travel the mainland, but there are some Baja people.

I read that you might be on the 10 news, but have you contacted the San Diego Union?

Again, my condolences to your entire family. While nothing can take away your grief, I hope the murderer is caught.

Take Care and Good Luck
Diane

[Edited on 11-17-2006 by jdtrotter]

gtx510 - 11-17-2006 at 11:19 AM

The Union Tribute says it happens so often that they don't even do stories on this sort of thing. My bro-in-law said, "isn't there a story in that?" They said they'd get back to us but haven't as yet. The news crew should be here any minute.

Can someone please ask the grocery stores at Insurgentes and Constitution if they know anything?

toneart - 11-17-2006 at 12:07 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by gtx510
The Union Tribute says it happens so often that they don't even do stories on this sort of thing. My bro-in-law said, "isn't there a story in that?" They said they'd get back to us but haven't as yet. The news crew should be here any minute.

Can someone please ask the grocery stores at Insurgentes and Constitution if they know anything?



Daniel,
Try contacting Reporter, Sandra Dibble of the San Diego Union. She was the only one to take a personal interest and report on the flood damage and aid needed by the people of Mulege in the first week of that tragedy.

It is really discouraging that the media feels that your story is so commonplace that they don't have an interest to cover it.

I am very sorry for your loss and certainly hope they catch the murderers soon. That post about where stolen vehicles usually turn up for repainting looks like a good lead. Hopefully there is a BajaNomad in the area who can follow up for you.

gtx510 - 11-17-2006 at 12:25 PM

Doug, could please call me at 619-933-1396. The channel 10 was hoping to contact you. Thanks.

FARASHA - 11-17-2006 at 12:45 PM

DANIEL check your U2U

gtx510 - 11-17-2006 at 01:44 PM

We already spoke to Anna Cearley at the U.T. I think she may have been the person who said they don't report on times like this because it happens so often. Hopefully channel 10 news will not think this way.

gtx510 - 11-17-2006 at 02:28 PM

Well, I think I've started enough of a fuss on the net that the UT is going to run a blurb or something. Sandra Dibble just call me and I haven't even tried contacting the UT so let's hope for the best.

gtx510 - 11-17-2006 at 02:37 PM

I can't post on www.baja.net
If someone could do that I'd appreciate it. Thanks.

Hook - 11-17-2006 at 02:45 PM

I'd like to suggest that you post a vehicle identification number for the vehicle. These bastards may change out the plates but may forget to cover/alter the VIN plate that should be mounted on the front dashboard, near where the windshield meets the dash.

You should be able to get this off the pink slip or the registration. If you have neither, a police department stateside may be willing to look it up for you, considering the situation.

You Mulege locals...........has the police department posted any description of the vehicle around town or the extended community? This, of course, should have been the first step of a legitimate investigation and is SOOO inexpensive to do.

It's suddenly starting to make sense why so many locals (not just Mulege) never know when a serious crime is committed and begin to question the legitimacy of the "rumors". The police appear to have every reason to hush it up, resist taking a report, etc., rather than expose their incompetence. Their most valuable asset in an investigation, the eyes and ears of the community, is shunned to save face.

So many are expecting/hoping Calderon to give the military marching orders against the cartels. I worry more about the incompetency and outright graft of the police. As a visitor or a foreign resident, that's much more likely to cause me grief than the cartels hitmen. The local crook/druggies know how incompetent they are, too, and how easy it is to get away with it.

If you talk to channel 10, I'd suggest you emphasize your experiences with the police, during this obfustication.....er, investigation.

This has got to stop........and it never will unless the victims and those who support them, complain.

SUGGESTION

bajaguy - 11-17-2006 at 03:25 PM

If you have time....a "Wanted" or "Information" poster (8 1/2 x 11) with a clear photo of the vehicle showing the obvious damage areas printed in spanish on one side, english on the other side and a few rolls of scotch tape. Make one up on your computer in color then take it to an instant print shop.

Blanket the area, in fact, the entire length of Baja at motels, PEMEX, grocery stores ATM's...........everywhere........

You will get results........believe me.....it worked once...ask Lizard Lips

DANIEL:...please check your u2u

[Edited on 11-17-2006 by bajaguy]

gtx510 - 11-17-2006 at 05:41 PM

We had some flyers when we were down there but didn't have any time to put them up.
I think we may have a few people in Mulege willing to help with posting flyers.

Would anyone be willing to help or possibly goto the military checkpoints and question the guards there?
I would be eternally grateful. Please email or call me or my sister Lisa to get the details. I should have a better flyer ready to go by then.
619-933-1396 my cellphone
858-794-8668 my sister Lisa's house
gtx510@gmail.com my email
lminerd@mac.com Lisa's email

gtx510 - 11-17-2006 at 05:46 PM

I should also say that my father's death was the top news story on channel 10 in San Diego tonight. Hopefully more people in Baja will hear of his death and know to look for his Jeep. And I hear his friends have been able to put some pressure on the consulate to figure out what when on donw there. My family had nothing to do with it but I and somewhat relieved that someone on this side of the border finally cares.

gtx500----

Barry A. - 11-17-2006 at 05:53 PM

----You be assured that all the NOMADS care very much on both sides of the border.

We are praying that progress is made in finding these low-lifes.

gtx510 - 11-17-2006 at 06:58 PM

I should also say that my father's death was the top news story on channel 10 in San Diego tonight. Hopefully more people in Baja will hear of his death and know to look for his Jeep. And I hear his friends have been able to put some pressure on the consulate to figure out what when on donw there. My family had nothing to do with it but I and somewhat relieved that someone on this side of the border finally cares.

gtx510 - 11-17-2006 at 07:20 PM

http://www.signonsandiego.com/
But I can't find the story on the Union Tribune site though someone called me and said they saw it there.

Here's the TV news story.
http://www.10news.com/news/10348245/detail.html
http://www.10news.com/index.html

gtx510 - 11-17-2006 at 07:45 PM

And I was told by the person who may have seen the Jeep that they were mistaken and it was on the 8th, but they didn't notice a roofrack or dent.
He still may have seen the Jeep as we are not certain of the time of death, given the time of the original consulate voicemail, and the Jeep being spotted Saturday at noon in Constitution. To me this all points to my father being killed before Saturday, but the local police's report conflicts with this.

gtx510 - 11-17-2006 at 07:46 PM

I don't have time right now but if someone can post on those other forums I'd be very thankful.

And would anyone be willing to help put up flyers? Or ask the kids at the military checkpoints if they saw anything?

Bruce R Leech - 11-17-2006 at 08:17 PM

Thank you Doug and all other Nomads for keeping the thread alive while I was not able to post. you did the right thing to try to help people be aware.

Bruce R Leech - 11-17-2006 at 09:12 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by gtx510
And I was told by the person who may have seen the Jeep that they were mistaken and it was on the 8th, but they didn't notice a roofrack or dent.
He still may have seen the Jeep as we are not certain of the time of death, given the time of the original consulate voicemail, and the Jeep being spotted Saturday at noon in Constitution. To me this all points to my father being killed before Saturday, but the local police's report conflicts with this.


My wife Edith saw his camper Thursday morning at about 8.15 in-the morning on Thursday the 9th of november. the car was gone.

gtx510 - 11-17-2006 at 11:12 PM

ARE YOU SERIOUS!!!!!

I knew this could be possible but this is the first confirmation I've had of my worst fears.
I will be calling you.

Baja police search for killers of Temecula man - former U.S. Marine

BajaNews - 11-17-2006 at 11:13 PM

http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/riverside/20061117-2029-b...

By Sandra Dibble
November 17, 2006

Baja California Sur police are searching for the killers of a 73-year-old Temecula man found stabbed to death south of Mulege, more than 600 miles from the border. The body of Lloyd Duane Curtis, a retired telecommunications specialist, was found Sunday inside his trailer at Playa Armenta, south of Mulege, according to the U.S. Consulate in Tijuana.
State police officials could not be reached yesterday, but Curtis' family said yesterday that no arrests had been made. Curtis' 2000 White Jeep Cherokee with a black roof and California plates is missing, and robbery may have been a motive for the killing.

The U.S. Consulate in Tijuana received an anonymous telephone call from a U.S. citizen about the case last Saturday. Police found Curtis's body the following day, said Lorena Blanco, a spokeswoman for the consulate.

The victim's son, Daniel Curtis, said Friday he believes his father may have been killed as early as Nov. 9.
Daniel Curtis said his father left for Baja California in late September or early October, driving a 23-foot trailer, accompanied by his dog, Gigi. “He parked on the beach and hung out,” Daniel Curtis said. The son said his father would drive to Baja California about twice a year. He spoke little Spanish.

The victim is a former Marine and retired telecommunications specialist. A native of Michigan, he moved to Temecula with his wife about two years ago the son said. Before that, he lived in Sorrento Valley and Carmel Mountain.

BajaNews - 11-17-2006 at 11:29 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by grover
Family Seeks Online Help In Baja Murder Case
http://www.10news.com/news/10348245/detail.html


November 17, 2006

SAN DIEGO -- A family is seeking help in a murder case in Mexico from an unusual source -- off-road racing enthusiasts.

The family of Duane Curtis has been working the Internet this week, trying to get the word out about his death and the theft of his Jeep. The family is hoping someone can help lead authorities to an arrest. Their main focus is on Americans who are in Baja for racing.

Curtis, 73, was a retired communications engineer and Korean War veteran.

“They didn't have to do this. He was an old, defenseless man just sitting on the beach. I can't reconcile how anyone can do this,” said Curtis’ grandson Curt Minerd.

The incident happened just a few days after another traveler snapped a picture of Playa Armenta, a beach near Mulege and Bahia Conception, deep in Baja. The photographer sent the picture to the family after seeing a web posting titled, “My father was murdered south of Mulege.”

The picture shows Curtis enjoying his vacation.

“He liked solitude. He loved the beach and swam a lot, snorkeled or sat on the beach to read,” said Curtis’ daughter Lisa Minerd.

Minerd has many fond memories of her father. She said Curtis had friends all over the world. His friends and his family were devastated by his death.

Another e-mail told the family of seeing a Jeep that might be his. The family is hoping somebody traveling the thousand-plus miles between Ensenada and La Paz might have seen the vehicle, too.

The vehicle is a 2000 Jeep 4x4 with a large, black luggage rack and a big dent in the rear door.

It was a difficult trip for the family this week to claim the body. Mexican authorities, they said, were not very cooperative. Viewing crime scene photos were part of the difficult process.

A caretaker for the beach named Gigi found Curtis’ dog wandering around and held on to her for the family. It is a connection to the man they lost and miss.

“I’ll miss his dry, witty sense of humor. He traveled the world and had a lot of stories to tell,” said Minerd.

gtx510 - 11-18-2006 at 02:30 PM

Can anyone help with putting up flyers?
If you can contact me at
619 - 933 - 1396 my cellphone
858 - 794 - 8668 my sister Lisa's house
gtx510@gmail.com gtx510 @ gmail.com

Bruce R Leech - 11-18-2006 at 02:42 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by gtx510
Can anyone help with putting up flyers?
If you can contact me at
619 - 933 - 1396 my cellphone
858 - 794 - 8668 my sister Lisa's house
gtx510@gmail.com gtx510 @ gmail.com


I will find a way to get it done
it was good talking with Daniel last night I wish it could be under better circumstances. call me if there is anything I can do for you.

best regards to your family

[Edited on 11-18-2006 by Bruce R Leech]

gtx510 - 11-18-2006 at 03:17 PM

Thanks, Bruce. Talking with you really helped me understand a few things.
I'll let you know when I have a flyer.

gtx510 - 11-18-2006 at 03:19 PM

http://www.baja.net/fud/index.php?t=thread&frm_id=2&...

I still can't post on baja.net
Can someone please post there for me?

gtx510 - 11-18-2006 at 03:44 PM

http://www.10news.com/news/10348245/detail.html
http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/riverside/20061117-2029-b...
http://forums.bajanomad.com/viewthread.php?tid=20775&pag...

PLEASE look for an ALL WHITE (grill, bumpers, everything) 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4x4 4.7L V8, with tan leather and a sunroof.
The windows are slighty tinted (from the factory). It may be the Laredo or Limited model?
California License Plate # 5NRK826
VIN # 1J4GW58N4YC185572

It has a black roof rack that is easily visible and a large dent on the rear liftgate.
It also has a large adjustable tow hitch. And there's a trailer brake controller under the dash
The radiator core support is also bent and you can see where it was cut off and welded back on.
It has yellow and blue Bilstein shocks and a white and red Rancho Steering Stabilizer on the front axle.

If you see this Jeep please contact the local authorities.
Or call the Santa Rosalia DA Sergio Villareal (011 - 52) 615 - 153 - 0804
Or the U.S. Consulate's office in Tijuana (011 - 52) 664 - 622 - 7439

If you have other information and would like to contact me I can be reached at
619 - 933 - 1396 cellphone
858 - 794 - 8668
gtx510@gmail.com gtx510 @ gmail.com


We now think my father may have been murdered as early as Wednesday (Nov. 8th), possible even before then. This would explain why the local police acting the way they are.

I was informed by the US consulate in Tijuana Sunday night that my 73 year old father, Lloyd Duane Curtis, had been murdered. He was stabbed three times, his lung punctured, he drowned in his own blood, the fatal blow was so forceful that it also broke his ribs. All this to steal his Jeep, a crappy portable DVD/TV, and a portable battery charger/jumper box. This probably(?) happened sometime between Wednesday and Saturday (8th-11th) of last week at Playa Armenta, south of Mulege. An American couple(?) discovered his body on Sunday and then the police remembered seeing the Jeep on Friday(?) in Custiad Constitution. The police have no suspects and the detective's investigation seems motivated by a desire to buy the Jeep from us. Naturally I am horrified by all this and their incompetence in general. They told me that an American citizen, Jim (or John?) Perry left a message on the US consulate hotline on Thursday or Friday reporting a lone trailer sitting on the beach and asked if the local police would investigate it. The police didn't so until Sunday after another American couple reported the death. My family and I are of the opinion that the police are lying about the time of death to hide their incompetence. The medical examiner told us "off the record" that the police were not telling the truth about this and that it most likely occurred 24hrs before the police were saying. When we arrived to claim the body and fill out paperwork the Santa Rosalia DA was "fishing" so we waited a few hours for him. And then he was most concerned about showing us that he was the bigshot in town and nothing happened without his ok. He even started talking back to me in Spanish after I questioned why it took them so long to find my father and that it appeared he had been dead for longer than they were saying. Their "investigation" consists of about 10 pictures and a coroner's report. And it seems like they feel that they won't find the killer so why even bother.

SO...

PLEASE look for this Jeep!!!

A pre-runner forwarded me this link of my dad on Playa Armenta (Armento?).
The coincidence is blowing my mind. Could you post it?
You can clearly see the roof rack and you can barely see the dent to the
left of the license plate.
http://www.flickr.com/photo_zoom.gne?id=292407181&size=o...


received this in an email.

"My wife and I were traveling to our home in Southern Baja and remember
seeing a Jeep of this description after leaving Loreto at 8:00 a.m. the
morning of the 8th. It was somewhere along the straight stretch of road
before you reach the intersection where the highway splits between Ciudad
Insurgentes and Ciudad Constitucion. The Jeep we saw was a Limited and
matches the color description. We may have seen some of the occupants but
not positive if it was this vehicle or a for sure. But we think (again
think) there may have 4 to 5 people in the car with a young hispanic girl of
late teens or early twenty's sitting in the back seat and also possibly a
young child too. I did not get a look at the front seat passengers but made
a comment to my wife that it looked like they had the whole family in the
vehicle. The young women in the back seat turned around and looked at us a
couple times before they pulled off the road letting us by. I do remember
that the girl did turn around and look at us through a tinted rear window of
the same shape as a Jeeps would be and this is what makes me think these
people may be associated to the vehicle that matches the description that we
saw. We hope for your families sake that these people are apprehended for
this crime."


And another.
"Hola! No sé si te sirva decirte esto, pero donde por lo regular siempre aparecen los carros robados son en puerto san carlos y pto adolfo lopez mateos, b.c.s., pero por lo regular los pintan y les arreglan los detalles por los cuales lo pudieran reconocer. Suerte! ojalá y den con lo tipos que robaron y asesinaron al extranjero."


Google translation.
"Hello! I do not know if it serves decirte this to you, but where by always regulating they appear the robbed cars are in port san Carlos and pto Adolph the mateos Lopez, b.c.s., but by regulating paints them and they fix the details to them by which they could recognize it. Luck! hopefully and they give with the types that robbed and assassinated the foreigner."

[Edited on 11-18-2006 by gtx510]

[Edited on 11-18-2006 by gtx510]

gtx510 - 11-18-2006 at 11:19 PM

I was informed of a possible sighting on Thursday the 16th, the Jeep may have been heading to Mexicali from San Felipe.
But that's a lot of military checkpoints to pass through or go around.

How difficult is it to avoid the checkpoints by taking the dirt roads? They would have had about a week so that seems like plenty of time to get from Constitution to San Felipe.

DianaT - 11-18-2006 at 11:28 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by gtx510
I was informed of a possible sighting on Thursday the 16th, the Jeep may have been heading to Mexicali from San Felipe.
But that's a lot of military checkpoints to pass through or go around.

How difficult is it to avoid the checkpoints by taking the dirt roads? They would have had about a week so that seems like plenty of time to get from Constitution to San Felipe.


Daniel,
If you think they are headed in that direction, you might contact the Imperial Valley Press. It is the main newspaper in the Imperial Valley and many of the people in the valley, especially in Calexico, spend a lot of time in Mexicali. Maybe they would print the Jeep details.

Our thoughts are with you and your family.

Diane

Daniel

Sharksbaja - 11-19-2006 at 12:30 AM

I feel your loss and if I can be of any help I will be there. You are a good man and son in your quest for resolution. God be with you.



[Edited on 11-19-2006 by Sharksbaja]

bbbait - 11-19-2006 at 10:12 AM

No checkpoints open from San Felipe to Mexicali yesterday. We went thru El Chinero at 8am Sat., 11/18, and no Federales in sight. Just a blinking yellow light...

Summanus - 11-19-2006 at 10:17 AM

Sharksbaja...your photo is quite blurry and is also too large for this screen. Can you enhance it any better and reduce it's size. Thanks.

We will be headed down the Baja highway within a few days and will keep our eyes open.

OK

Sharksbaja - 11-19-2006 at 12:47 PM

I resized it:

ARMENT~4.jpg - 14kB

Gtx510...

M - 11-19-2006 at 01:02 PM

On the previous page you all were discussing reporters and getting this 'out there', ......broader range.
Has anybody called Marla Fisher of the Register in O.C?
She is a Nomad and has written some wonderfull Baja destination stories for the travel section. She has also done some in depth, investigative reporting.
I read the Register every day and it has been a long while since I have seen an article regarding travel safetyfor the Baja tourist.
Seems this story has plenty of twists and turns and 'connections' to make it an interesting read. Sort of like one of those '48 Hrs Mystery' shows.
She may try to help if she is made aware of this situation. Just a thought.
M

Bruce R Leech - 11-19-2006 at 03:11 PM

M this is your big chance to do it. let us know what she says

DianaT - 11-19-2006 at 06:17 PM

Watching channel 10 news right now. They just did a follow-up---really sad to see the funeral. Dang, such a senseless happening, but at least they seem to be staying with the story ---not that it can change what happened, but maybe it can lead to some resolution.

I think I heard that the state department is getting involved????

Diane

EngineerMike - 11-20-2006 at 02:19 PM

If the Jeep has current license plates that would not otherwise raise suspicion, the military check points wouldn't have any reason to question the occupants other than the usual cursory checks for contraband (i.e. the Militarios are not checking for banditos). That would mean Mexican plates for Mexican occupants or gringo plates for gringos.
A friend just returned from Mulege and said the military checkpoints were unmanned, at least while the caravans of B-1K folks were blasting thru. Presumably they were reassigned to various other places than on the main highway.
I did see a sort of most-wanted photo paste-up at one checkpoint last month, but for that to be useful in this case there would have to be a photo of a suspect.

Summanus - 11-20-2006 at 03:12 PM

Also, It might be useful to know what other items were stolen. Perhaps the perps will be trying to sell those goods quickly. Wherever criminals fence these things in Baja..might be the place to look. Pawn shops, junk dealers, swap meets, etc. Clues can turn up anywhere.

Cypress - 11-20-2006 at 03:23 PM

Idiots! They'll probably die from terminal dumb-ass before the law catches up with 'em.:(

David K - 11-20-2006 at 05:27 PM

All the military checkpoints normally stopping cars in Baja on Hwy. 1 and 5, north from Bahia de los Angeles were CLOSED on Nov. 14-19.

gtx510 - 11-20-2006 at 06:25 PM

Thank you for your condolences and kind words, that has really helped to keep me goiing thru all this. It feels so hopeless from my end, searching thru a keyboard for someone roaming around Baja. And the murder could have been almost 2 weeks ago. The police didn't even have pictures of the ground around the scene, just a shot of about a 1/2 dozen cops wandering inside and out of his trailer. I can't get the police photos out of my mind.

My father's funeral was yesterday. Marine honor guard did a 21 gun salute and presented my mother with the flag. Our dog whined thru the entire thing but she may have just wanted out of the car. I can't remember a day that my father wouldn't do the x-word puzzle from the daily paper, so I left him yesterday's and a mechanical pencil like he liked to use. I felt so sorry for all the friends and family in attendance.


The only things I can remember stolen were a small DVD/TV player, it was a no name model from JCPenneys, screen as about 7-8". What was odd is the police asked us if we knew what brand it was and acted like they knew it was missing. I was wondering, "how do they know about that?" I don't remember seeing DVD's in the photo's but there may have been some left.
There was also a battery jumper box for jump starting a car battery. I think it was blue but might have been red or yellow. It's about a foot tall and wide and about 1/2 ft thick. There was a handle on the top and it was like a plastic suitcase. It had a flash light and a voltgauge on the front side and a jumper cable on both sides.
I also imagine he clothes and wallet were stolen as we didn't see those in the pictures.

We didn't have time to make it to the Mulege police or talk to the State police. And I've even heard that there was no state police investigation for this and there should have been. We're not even sure if the person we spoke to in Santa Rosalia was the DA. I don't ever remember seeing a badge or credentials. Honestly, my family and I think that because this happened (or the police finally found his body...) so close to the Baja 1000 that they wanted to keep his murder quiet so tourism wouldn't be affected. And they did this by blothing the investigation. We don't even know if the State police in La Paz were notified as we've now been told that they should have been handling the case.

Hopeful a Congresional Inquiry (Report?) to the TJ consulate will help. I thank whomever was about to get that done. Thank you. And I know I can also speak for my family and father's friends. Thank you so very much.


The last possible sighting I have of the Jeep heading north to Mexicali says they remember seeing a roofrack.

That the military checkpoints aren't running is crushing to hear but I know the plates could easily be changed to BC places anyways. And I've seen plenty of plateless cars down there, I think I've even seen them make it thu checkpoints without a problem, while we get shaken down for soda, gatorade, fruit, batteries, scotch tape, playboys, beer, etc.

Again, thank you for you best wishes and prayers. I'm sorry if some of this sounds like gibberish but my head's been spinning for over a week and it usually just gets worse with the reports that I get from travellers or expats in Mexico. But PLEASE keep these reports coming and PLEASE check looking for my father's Jeep.

gtx510 - 11-21-2006 at 04:31 PM

Does my new sig work?

Help us find my father's killer(s?)!!!

[Edited on 11-21-2006 by gtx510]

gtx510 - 11-21-2006 at 07:22 PM

Now we can't report the Jeep stolen to the US authorities because we were never given a report in Mexico. So the Jeep could freely cross the border carrying drugs, nukes, guns, chemical weapons or whatever. I couldn't even get the CHP officer at the Otay Mesa office to put an alert on the Jeep. He didn't seem to mind that someone involved in a murder could possibly enter the US with the Jeep. But he didn't seem to mind if I lied and said the Jeep was stolen in the US, just as long as I went to a different office. oh, the compassion. And the Customs or Border Patrol won't do anything unless they have a stolen vehicle report. The police won't do the report and the CHP won't answer the phone. I talked to them 1/2 an hour before this but I didn't know the Jeep haven't been reported stolen. I can't believe the bureaucratic BS my family and I have had to put up with and now we're getting it on this side of the border. As if spending all day calling the State Dept, DEA, FBI, local police, CHP, etc wasn't taxing enough.

[Edited on 11-22-2006 by gtx510]

Hook - 11-22-2006 at 01:15 PM

Really........REALLY........PATHETIC.

I am so sorry for your frustration. The authorities are leaving you no recourse but to publicize this nightmare at every turn.

gtx510 - 11-22-2006 at 03:32 PM

Wanna heara REALLY good one?

I just got off the phone with someone at the Desk of Mexico at the State Dept.
Apparently he's saying we never should have had to go to Santa Rosalia to claim the body, we never should have signed paperwork for a death certificate, and the consulate should have handled both those things for us. In fact, he asked me why we signed papers at all and I told him because that's what the consulate said had to be done.

I just sit there and ask myself WTF really happened there? Why is everything being handled differently than it should be?

DianaT - 11-22-2006 at 03:47 PM

It is sounding like there are several people who hope you get frustrated and just go away. :mad:

My thoughts are with you and your strength in continuing to seek some answers.

Take Care
Diane

Check points

pangamadness - 11-23-2006 at 08:00 AM

I drove home yesterday from Loreto and all the check points were closed. Strange, I would think they would be looking for this person. Recardo at Rice and Beans said the person was caught. guess not.

David K - 11-23-2006 at 11:04 AM

The checkpoints (when open) are looking for guns, ammo and drugs... It would really surprise me if they have been given authority to arrest other kinds of criminals.

Details of Murder near Mulege

gtx510 - 11-23-2006 at 03:42 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by CasaManzana
Bruce- I have tried today in Mulege to find someone who can provide any details on these two incidents. Why has none of the locals or gringos in town heard of any of this? Please provide dates and locations so I can seek details and substantiate this story. (email me directly if you wish to not expose the information here)

[Edited on 11-14-2006 by CasaManzana]
I am Duane Curtis' son-in-law, Rick, and have been to Mulege and Playa Armenta with Duane, who camped there often. He was murdered in his trailer on Playa Armenta "officially" the 11th, and his 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee stolen. There were signs of struggle. It is white with gold trim, license 5NRK826. Due to advanced decay, he may have been killed as early as 11-7 or 8. We are looking for anyone who has seen his Jeep recently, or around or at the campsite during this time period, which was easily visible from the highway. Please share this info with other locals in Mulege. Officer Sergio Villareal at 52-615-153-0804 is the lead investigator handling the case. If you have any information, please contact him. rminerd@san.rr.com

A possible new lead

Mulegena - 11-23-2006 at 10:59 PM

Would it be possible to find out who has been released from the prison south of Santa Rosalia prior to this? Driving back and forth from Mulege to Sta. R. I've noticed young men hitchhiking and/or walking. I've wondered if they are just-released convicts who have completed their sentence and been set free to make their way who knows where. Surely there would be statistics available which might possibly provide a valuable lead.

gtx510 - 11-25-2006 at 09:13 PM

Daniel again...
I doubt they'd give out that sort of info but it might be worth asking?

I'd hope the military would detain people they suspected of driving stolen cars, but who knows?

Daniel

bajaguy - 11-25-2006 at 09:17 PM

Did you get the u2u's that I sent??

Lauri - 11-28-2006 at 03:06 PM

Dear Curtis Family,
My name is Lauri Taylor and I would like to send you my sincere condolences. I was so saddened to hear of the murder of your beloved father. I am writing to you because we share a terribly unfortunate bond as my mother, Jane A. Kling, was also murdered in Baja this year. If I can be of any help or support to your family in any way, I would like to offer it, but would not like to intrude. Please feel free to e-mail me and I will forward my phone number so that we can talk privately. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

reefrocket - 11-29-2006 at 01:50 AM

I don't mean to step on any toes here BUT I have read all the post an have hear no mention of a REWARD! It's been my experience that MONEY opens mouths and eye expecally if in US dollars. I personally would put up $100 US to anyone that can help resolve this unspeakable crime. I vow I will send it to Doug or a chosen represenative if someone can. Doug or David K has my E address and can notify me of results.

Even the police interest perks up with money!!!!:!:

ursidae69 - 11-29-2006 at 10:04 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Hook
Really........REALLY........PATHETIC.


I agree, the authorities aught to be ashamed. I hope they find this killer and string him up.

If this story fades away without any resolution, I will be re-thinking my plans for March 07. I've already removed Conception Bay from my itinerary. Sad that the locals have to pay for this with reduced tourism dollars.

My prayers are with the family.

Hook - 11-29-2006 at 01:30 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by reefrocket
I don't mean to step on any toes here BUT I have read all the post an have hear no mention of a REWARD! It's been my experience that MONEY opens mouths and eye expecally if in US dollars. I personally would put up $100 US to anyone that can help resolve this unspeakable crime. I vow I will send it to Doug or a chosen represenative if someone can. Doug or David K has my E address and can notify me of results.

Even the police interest perks up with money!!!!:!:


You make a good point, reefrocket. Money can work wonders.

Money offered..............AND money withheld.

tripledigitken - 11-29-2006 at 02:34 PM

Recently in El Cajon, CA arrests have been made for the killing of 2 liquor store employees by 2 assailants. The reason given by the police for the arrest?.....a tip generated from a $100,000 reward put up by the owners and the community.

It does work!

psyflyjohn - 12-1-2006 at 10:42 AM

This is very interesting. I arrived in Burro Beach yesterday. Was having dinner with some folks who spend all winter down here, and have been here since October. I mentioned the recent homicide at Playa Armenta -and they hadn't heard about it ! I'm amazed at the lack of communication down here. They knew the gentleman, and were very shocked about his demise.

Cypress - 12-1-2006 at 11:22 AM

If you aren't wired into the internet etc. or have little dialogue with people in the community, how would you know what's going on beyond your range of vision?:no:

Duane Curtis Jeep found

Stickers - 12-1-2006 at 04:51 PM

The Jeep of a San Diego man killed while on vacation in Baja has been found, 10News reported.

Earlier this month, Duane Curtis, 73, was found stabbed to death on a beach in Baja where he was vacationing.

Curtis?s Jeep was missing and his dog was found wandering along the beach.

According to his family, police recovered the Jeep near Ciudad Constitution in Mulege.

Mexican authorities have told the family that they have some leads, but so far no arrests have been made.

toneart - 12-1-2006 at 05:40 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Stickers
The Jeep of a San Diego man killed while on vacation in Baja has been found, 10News reported.

Earlier this month, Duane Curtis, 73, was found stabbed to death on a beach in Baja where he was vacationing.

Curtis?s Jeep was missing and his dog was found wandering along the beach.

According to his family, police recovered the Jeep near Ciudad Constitution in Mulege.

Mexican authorities have told the family that they have some leads, but so far no arrests have been made.


Huh???Ciudad Constitution is not near Mulege.
Anyway, good that the jeep was found. Hope the leads lead to the murder(s).

Bruce R Leech - 12-1-2006 at 06:23 PM

I don't trust the press . I hope that gtx510 will post something here about the jeep.

BajaWarrior - 12-1-2006 at 06:26 PM

I just checked kgtv.com, the story is there, apparently it is his vehicle.

Bruce R Leech - 12-1-2006 at 07:33 PM

the police here in Mulege know nothing about the jeep being found. but that doesn't mean anything, they rarely know anything about anything

Pescador - 12-2-2006 at 07:11 AM

It is pretty common knowledge that a lot of the crime that happens in Loreto, Ligui, and south of Mulege comes from people in Constitucion. The same thing happened to a guy who used to camp at the beach at Ligui, but when the bad guys left with his truck, he had called the friends of his in Ligui who proceded to block the road and this outlaw was stopped before he could get on the road at Ligui. We were told by the port Captain in Lopez Mateos that they were able to trace most of their crime to people in Constitucion.

southerner - 12-2-2006 at 07:46 AM

That's not good news for San Juanico when (if) the road finally gets paved. A whole new market for the Constitucion thugs

bajarich - 12-3-2006 at 02:42 PM

Why is there so much crime around Constitution? It's mostly a farming, fishing community isn't it? Is there a bad drug problem? I've met several people from there who are really nice. What's up?

Minnow - 12-3-2006 at 03:40 PM

Crystal meth is a HUGE problem all over baja. It's not just the states. Imagine a thief that can work for days on end. Not to mention the Tenayan.

gtx510 - 12-3-2006 at 08:40 PM

Tenayan?

I always figured all the dirt roads around there gave the lawless types plenty of room to hide or get around.


We finally got in touch with the Mulege police. I'm not sure why that took so long. We don't know anything definate but apparently they're working on it. ie. we're not sure if the Jeep has been found or not. Or if there's any suspects.

[Edited on 12-4-2006 by gtx510]

[Edited on 12-4-2006 by gtx510]

kellychapman - 12-3-2006 at 09:10 PM

It is pretty common knowledge that crime is everywhere now it seems....you are not really safe ANYWHERE in these time and that is the pure and simple truth......I hate it.....

Hook - 12-4-2006 at 02:47 PM

How is it that KGTV has the story, yet the family of the victim hasn't been notified?

gtx510 - 12-4-2006 at 03:17 PM

I think when I last talked to 10news they mistook "might have found" for "did find"? and ran a quick follow-up peice?

Minnow - 12-4-2006 at 03:36 PM

Tenayan is one brand of a cheap cane liquer that contributes greatly to alcoholism in Mexico. IMHO, whoever did this horrible act to your father had to have been on something. What a shame.

Cincodemayo - 12-4-2006 at 04:17 PM

gtx510...
This whole story is absolutely unbelieveable. The GROSS stupidity of officials and the total lack of responsibility of the governmental departments within the US. I'm amazed what you have gone thru.
Condolances don't even skim the surface of what anger you must feel towards the police and chain of BS. I'd think it's time to rattle EVERY elected officials neck and get something done. My thoughts surely go out to you and your family.

Barry A. - 12-4-2006 at 04:23 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Cincodemayo
gtx510...
This whole story is absolutely unbelieveable. The GROSS stupidity of officials and the total lack of responsibility of the governmental departments within the US. I'm amazed what you have gone thru.
Condolances don't even skim the surface of what anger you must feel towards the police and chain of BS. I'd think it's time to rattle EVERY elected officials neck and get something done. My thoughts surely go out to you and your family.


"total lack of responsibility of the governmental deprtments within the US" ????????? Just what depts. are you talking about??? and what do they have to do with Mexico????

kellychapman - 12-5-2006 at 11:20 PM

The same thing that happens everywhere.....crime is what comes with growth and the influx of workers from all over, probably from very high crime rates. It has just come to the time in life where no matter where you go it is imperative to take safety percations for you and your family.....and not to be stupid to think that there is a possiblity that something could happen to you....but most importantly..... do whatever you have to do to keep your family safe because it is our job to take care of our loved ones....

gtx510 - 12-5-2006 at 11:30 PM

My family and I have talked to the:
State Dept + TJ consulate and Mexico City embassy (and the FBI agent there)
DEA
FBI
Border Patrol
Customs/Immigration
SDPD
CHP
ICE (part of Homeland security)
Darrell Issa's office (our local congressman)

Unless the murder(s?) were US citiizens or drugs were involved all they can do is pressure the Mexican gov't to produce results. And I don't know if they're even doing that. The TJ consulate isn't much help other than referring info that the local police tell them. AND they incorrectly instructed us on how to get my dad's body back to the States. Thanks, that was $10k my family didn't need anyhow. And I really liked the experience I had with the Mexican "authorities", especially the dumb kid at the TJ airport that wanted to open a hermetically sealed casket. He was supposed to be a medical examiner? scary...

Cincodemayo - 12-6-2006 at 03:19 PM

Barry,
Well try the State dept. for starters...READ it again and maybe something will sink in. Ambassador to Mexico,
What does it have to do with Mexico?? It has everything to do with being an American citizen IN Mexico that got brutally murderered...Think hard, maybe you'll get it.

[Edited on 12-6-2006 by Cincodemayo]

Cypress - 12-6-2006 at 03:32 PM

Anybody that takes the life of a fellow human for any reason other than self defense ought to be removed from the gene pool ASAP!

DanO - 12-6-2006 at 03:36 PM

Wow, I just read the story linked in Grover's post. If even a tenth of that is accurate, it is incredibly troubling. This is what customs agents are doing now?

[Edited on 12-6-2006 by DanO]

Cinco-------really thinking hard, but-------

Barry A. - 12-7-2006 at 12:15 AM

----I still don't "get it".

There is no way that I am going to expect the US Government to take any action on something that happens to me (or any other US Citizen) in Mexico-------it is a FOREIGN COUNTRY-----Hello?????? They can "look into things", but that is about all they can do, or can be expected to do, in my opinion.

When one travels abroad, you are pretty much on your own-----that is my point, and folks should remember that.

None of this conversation detracts from the tragedy that has befallen the man killed near Conception, or the anguish of his relatives-----I feel very sad about that. I was simply responding to YOUR apparent trashing of the US Govt., and the "idea" that people expect our Govt. to be able to "do something" about these types of trajedies in foreign countries. Lets face it, our Govt. can barely react to tragedies in our own country-----Katrina comes to mind-----and I certainly do not expect more. You can "hope", but don't be surprised if nothing happens.

I feel very strongly about this---------we need to take responsibility for our own situations without thinking/hoping that our "government" will somehow make things alright. That is not their role, in my opinion.

I had a very good friend (with his girl friend), who crashed his Porsche south of Tijuana many years ago-------we were unable to recover either of their bodies, or the Porsche-------that is the way things are-----it is a foreign country. This is one of the reasons why travel in Mexico is such an adventure, and why I choose to no longer go there (after 53 years of Baja travel)------it is just not worth the "risk" anymore, for me, at my age (69).

gtx510 - 12-7-2006 at 04:50 AM

I wish pops felt that way 4 years ago. I wish he wasn't so disillusioned with our gov't, after working for it most of his life, that he would purposely miss the elections by staying down there. I wish 9/11 wasn't his birthday because that made him so sad every year after that tragedy. I've seen my dad cry twice, his father's funeral and that day. I wish he never told me stories about driving down to the mainland in his youth. I wish he didn't like that beach and the weather so damn much. And, Barry, I wish that I didn't agree with you.

Bruce R Leech - 12-7-2006 at 07:19 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Barry A.
----I still don't "get it".

There is no way that I am going to expect the US Government to take any action on something that happens to me (or any other US Citizen) in Mexico-------it is a FOREIGN COUNTRY-----Hello?????? They can "look into things", but that is about all they can do, or can be expected to do, in my opinion.

When one travels abroad, you are pretty much on your own-----that is my point, and folks should remember that.

None of this conversation detracts from the tragedy that has befallen the man killed near Conception, or the anguish of his relatives-----I feel very sad about that. I was simply responding to YOUR apparent trashing of the US Govt., and the "idea" that people expect our Govt. to be able to "do something" about these types of trajedies in foreign countries. Lets face it, our Govt. can barely react to tragedies in our own country-----Katrina comes to mind-----and I certainly do not expect more. You can "hope", but don't be surprised if nothing happens.

I feel very strongly about this---------we need to take responsibility for our own situations without thinking/hoping that our "government" will somehow make things alright. That is not their role, in my opinion.

I had a very good friend (with his girl friend), who crashed his Porsche south of Tijuana many years ago-------we were unable to recover either of their bodies, or the Porsche-------that is the way things are-----it is a foreign country. This is one of the reasons why travel in Mexico is such an adventure, and why I choose to no longer go there (after 53 years of Baja travel)------it is just not worth the "risk" anymore, for me, at my age (69).


Berry the US gov. or state dept. will recover the body of any us citizen that dies in a foreign country.and they really dropped the ball on this one. they did nothing that they were supposed to do.

Bruce-----

Barry A. - 12-8-2006 at 11:55 PM

----that is totally news to me, but I will take your word for it.

We certainly had no luck with my friend, or his girl friend, but then the families did not try that hard-------their attitude was "there is no life or spirit left in a body". That may sound hard, but being from a family that places no value in a "body", and has always cremated their dead, I guess I can appreciate that.

kellychapman - 12-9-2006 at 12:07 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by Barry A.
----I still don't "get it".

There is no way that I am going to expect the US Government to take any action on something that happens to me (or any other US Citizen) in Mexico-------it is a FOREIGN COUNTRY-----Hello?????? They can "look into things", but that is about all they can do, or can be expected to do, in my opinion.

When one travels abroad, you are pretty much on your own-----that is my point, and folks should remember that.

None of this conversation detracts from the tragedy that has befallen the man killed near Conception, or the anguish of his relatives-----I feel very sad about that. I was simply responding to YOUR apparent trashing of the US Govt., and the "idea" that people expect our Govt. to be able to "do something" about these types of trajedies in foreign countries. Lets face it, our Govt. can barely react to tragedies in our own country-----Katrina comes to mind-----and I certainly do not expect more. You can "hope", but don't be surprised if nothing happens.

I feel very strongly about this---------we need to take responsibility for our own situations without thinking/hoping that our "government" will somehow make things alright. That is not their role, in my opinion.

I had a very good friend (with his girl friend), who crashed his Porsche south of Tijuana many years ago-------we were unable to recover either of their bodies, or the Porsche-------that is the way things are-----it is a foreign country. This is one of the reasons why travel in Mexico is such an adventure, and why I choose to no longer go there (after 53 years of Baja travel)------it is just not worth the "risk" anymore, for me, at my age (69).
it is risky to drive in far more places then Baja.....I can appreciate not wanting to come to Baja because of the risk....but Taco Bell scares me think about eating at. I feel horrible about what happened to his poor father...but that could have happened anywhere. It would be wonderful if they could find who did such a horrible thing...but if one looks at unsolved murders in the USA you will find a much higher stastistic that is for sure....no matter where you go you have to take precautions for your safety......

toneart - 12-9-2006 at 01:04 AM

I have to disagree with Barry A. regarding expectations. I do expect more out of my government. I pay taxes and I expect the Government to exist mainly to protect it's citizens It enacts a Homeland Security department to "Protect us against terrorists". In theory, that's fine but I don't like the way they are dismantling our civil rights in the process. I don't want them to protect me in that way. I'll protect myself when a terrorist comes to my doorstep, or not. It was the same with the bogeyman communists. By the way, I am a Patriot, an American and have no love for terrorists or communists.

I do expect my government to protect us when we are hurt or killed in a foreign country. I do expect my government to protect the downtrodden who fall through the cracks. I do expect my government to make healthcare affordable to all it's citizens.

I am very sorry this tragedy has happened. The Mexican law enforcement and diplomats have really let this family down. Yes, it has the main responsibility to search for the murderer(s)and to tell the truth to the family. They also have the responsibility to see that the remains are taken care of according to the family's wishes.

Regarding the U.S. Government in this circumstance, it does have a responsibility to intervene on behalf of it's citizens, if the foreign government does not act responsibly. Of course, time and procedure was squandered. I think our government can still diplomatically pressure the Mexican government to pursue the case. Where the cynic in me agrees with Barry is that, based on past performance, I am not surprised. In practice, our government has let us down before and so I have to say my expectations are unrealistic.

kellychapman - 12-9-2006 at 09:34 AM

you have got to be kidding thinking our government will protect us wwhile traveling to a foreign country ....I am born raised Army Brat with 45 years military between mom and dad...and the government is NOT going to come running for us if we leave the country if something horrible happens to us. It is the responsibility of the US government to take care of the challenges it faces right now....It is the police force that should be responsible to maintain more safety where-ever you may choose to venture off too.
if you want to travel where they have good forensics then by all means do not come to Mexico......
I think we have to take care of ourselves pure and simple....if we leave the USA........make sure everything is smooth and running, don't drive at night, blah blah bah.....we have so many cold case files in the USA it is ridiculous and to want to find out how some horrible tradgedy happened on the beach in Southern Mexico one star lit night....in an unprotected enviornment....anything can happen....I am sorry if this sounds cold, but to make the US government take care of it is impossible in my eyes...I am an ex-patriot and I am responsible to take care of myself....I do not expect anyone from the USA to come running if I should meet a horrible fate....they have enough to do as it is right now.....I know without doubt that if I chose to stay alone on a beach without a weapon of some sort.in an unprotected enviornment...I would probably be assuslted in one form or another......and that also applies to anyone else.....making bad choices about your safety is something we all do....but the Us government taking care of us outside it's boarders....I just cannot go their....
I would hate to be in this situation with a family member....and mine think I am crazy....:bounce: I am.....because they think something horrible will happen to me....and it could happen anywhere is my reply......
Now if your sent here to Mexico on Government assignment then that would be different....but traveling???? Camping??? only if there were many, many, cases....like it takes people getting killed on a corner before they put up a light....that kinda thing....use good judjement is all when on your own...my bother-in-laws plane blew up 100 miles out of mexico city with 7 very high level executives onboard....it reamined unsolved for over 7 yrs before finally just posting ....lighting hit on an empy fuel tank....boom....I think they finally just put that their to close the paperwork...that is just the way it is......

mtgoat666 - 12-9-2006 at 09:47 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by toneart

Regarding the U.S. Government in this circumstance, it does have a responsibility to intervene on behalf of it's citizens, if the foreign government does not act responsibly.


I don't recall seeing this in the bill of rights.

I think the US government (and Mexican police) are overextended,.... and the squeeky wheel gets the grease.

Squeel if you want attention (but squeel politely).
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