Ahead of their son Cameron Robbins’ memorial, his parents have broken their silence to express gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received.
Cameron, an 18-year-old who went missing at sea in shark-infested waters at the end of last month after jumping off a pirate-themed booze cruise ship in the Bahamas on a dare, will be remembered in a memorial service.
William and Shari Robbins, both 54, spoke to The Post from their residence in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, sharing their appreciation for the calls they have received.
While grieving the loss of their son, the couple remained composed and gracious, emphasizing their gratitude for the outpouring of support. Shari Robbins stated, “We are just mourning our son right now. We appreciate you calling. Maybe we will be able to talk more later.” William Robbins added, “We appreciate everyone’s support.”
The family composed a heartfelt obituary for Cameron, whom they lovingly adopted shortly after his birth in Abilene, Texas.
Described as a beloved grandson, son, brother, and friend, Cameron, also known as Cameron Crossley Robbins, went missing at sea near Athol Island in the Bahamas on the evening of May 24. The obituary highlighted his passion for sports, particularly baseball, which he pursued as a three-year varsity letterman in high school. Despite facing multiple injuries, Cameron showcased his resilience by pitching through separated shoulders and broken hands.
Apart from his athletic pursuits, Cameron had a love for his truck and country music. He was renowned for his singing skills in the shower and at karaoke sessions. The obituary also humorously mentioned his penchant for late-night pantry raids, where he indulged in copious amounts of Fruity Pebbles and popcorn.
The memorial service for Cameron will take place on Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Broadmoor United Methodist Church in Baton Rouge. In addition to his parents, he is survived by his brother Cole, sister Cassie, and two grandmothers with whom he shared a close bond. Numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins also mourn his loss. The family has requested that donations be made to the Christian Homes & Family Services in Abilene in lieu of flowers.
Cameron had recently graduated from University Lab School in Baton Rouge on May 21. His ill-fated adventure occurred shortly after a fishing trip with his father and brother along the Louisiana Gulf Coast. Reports suggest that he jumped overboard from the Blackbeard’s Revenge, a pirate ship-themed vessel, as part of a dare during a graduation celebration in the Bahamas with friends.
Video footage captured the haunting moments before Cameron disappeared. Onlookers shouted for him to grab a rescue buoy, but he swam away from it. Speculation arose from online viewers who claimed to have seen shark-like creatures, including a fin, in the video, suggesting that Cameron was trying to escape from them. As the video ends, someone can be heard exclaiming, “This kid f–king jumped off! Oh my f–king God! Oh, shut the f–k up! Oh, bye, bye!” Moments later, Cameron vanished beneath the water’s surface.
For two days, the US Coast Guard, the United Cajun Navy, and the Royal Bahamas Defense Force diligently searched the murky waters. The search covered over 325 square miles but yielded no signs of the recent graduate. Cameron’s family also joined the search effort in the Bahamas before returning to the United States.
As Cameron’s loved ones prepare to gather in his memory, their appreciation for the support they have received serves as a testament to the enduring impact he had on those around him.
