A young South African woman, who was part of a superyacht crew, was tragically killed just days before her 21st birthday while the luxury vessel was docked in the Bahamas, according to local law enforcement. Paige Bell, 20, was discovered deceased in the engine room of the nearly 150-foot yacht on July 3, as reported by the Royal Bahamas Police Force.
Bell was allegedly sexually assaulted and killed by Brigido Munoz, a Mexican national and the yacht’s engineer. Bell, who was set to celebrate her 21st birthday on July 14, had been serving on the yacht named Far From It. The vessel, which was anchored off Harbour Island, is available for charter at a rate of approximately $140,000 per week.
Bell was found injured and unresponsive, and a doctor later pronounced her dead. Munoz was discovered near her body, bearing injuries on his arms that authorities believe were self-inflicted in a suicide attempt. He was subsequently hospitalized, treated, and charged in connection with Bell’s death.
Bell, originally from Johannesburg, was fondly remembered by her loved ones and former employers in the yachting industry as a “golden girl”. A crew member from one of her previous boats, the Sweet Emocean, wrote a heartfelt tribute, describing Bell as more than a teammate, but family. Her radiant spirit, infectious laughter, and boundless compassion left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her, they added.
The circumstances leading to Bell’s tragic death are still under investigation by the police. Munoz, meanwhile, has been denied bail and is set to remain in custody until his hearing scheduled for November 20.