A tragic incident occurred on a luxury superyacht in the Bahamas, where a South African crew member, Paige Bell, was found dead in the engine room just days before her 21st birthday. The young sailor was reportedly sexually assaulted and murdered by the ship’s engineer, Brigido Munoz, a Mexican national.
Paige, who was supposed to celebrate her 21st birthday on July 14, was a crew member on the yacht Far From It, which charters for a staggering $140,000 per week. She was discovered partially undressed and unresponsive in the engine room, with Munoz found nearby with injuries to his arms, suspected to be from a suicide attempt.
Despite efforts to save her, Paige was declared dead by a doctor at the scene. Munoz was taken to a hospital for treatment before being charged in connection with her murder. The motive behind the heinous crime is still unclear, and authorities are conducting a thorough investigation.
Hailing from Johannesburg, Paige was described as a “golden girl” by her loved ones and former colleagues in the yachting industry. A crew member from one of her previous boats, Sweet Emocean, paid tribute to her radiant spirit, infectious laughter, and boundless compassion that left a lasting impact on everyone she met.
The tragic loss of Paige has left her friends, family, and colleagues in shock and mourning. The senseless act of violence has shattered the tranquility of life aboard the luxury yacht and raised questions about safety and security in such exclusive settings.
Brigido Munoz has been denied bail and will remain in custody until his hearing on November 20. The investigation into Paige Bell’s murder continues as her memory is honored by those who knew and loved her. May justice be served for the young sailor whose life was cut short in such a brutal and senseless manner.