South African Yacht Stewardess Found Dead in Bahamas, Engineer Charged with Murder
A tragic incident aboard a luxury superyacht has shocked the international yachting community after a young South African woman was found dead just days before her 21st birthday. The victim, Paige Bell, a stewardess described by peers as the “golden girl” of the industry, was allegedly sexually assaulted and murdered on July 3 while working on the yacht Far From It, anchored off Harbour Island in the Bahamas.
Her body was discovered partially undressed in the yacht’s engine room, bearing signs of violence, including gashes to her neck and injuries on her arms—evidence suggesting she tried to fight off her attacker. The suspect, identified as 39-year-old Mexican national Brigido Munoz, was a senior engineer on the same vessel.
Suspect Hospitalised
Authorities arrested Munoz shortly after the discovery. He was found with self-inflicted wounds on his arms. After receiving medical attention, he was charged with murder and denied bail. He remains in custody and is expected to face a court hearing on November 20.
Bell’s death has sparked outrage and sorrow across the globe, especially among her fellow crew members and loved ones. Her colleagues described her as more than a coworker — calling her family, a radiant soul, and someone who left a lasting impact on everyone she met during her time at sea.
“Her radiant spirit, infectious laughter, and boundless compassion made an unforgettable impact,” a tribute from the crew of her previous yacht, Sweet Emocean, read.
Charter Yacht with a Price Tag and a Tragedy
The Far From It superyacht, reportedly chartering for nearly US$140,000 (approximately S$190,000) per week, has now become the centre of a criminal investigation. These luxury yachts, often flagged under tax haven countries like the Cayman Islands, are known for hosting ultra-wealthy clientele — a world that Bell, like many young yachties, had joined to chase opportunities abroad.
The glamour of superyacht life has often been juxtaposed with its darker, more isolated realities. Working long hours in confined spaces and under demanding conditions, crew members — especially young women — may find themselves vulnerable without adequate protection or support.
A Birthday Never Celebrated
Bell was just days away from turning 21 on July 14. Her mother, determined to honour her memory, shared that she still plans to celebrate her daughter’s birthday by enjoying red velvet cake — Paige’s favourite.
A GoFundMe page launched by Bell’s colleagues has seen an outpouring of support from around the world, as many grieve her loss and demand justice.
Luxury, Exploitation, and High-Profile Crimes
This incident adds to growing scrutiny over working conditions aboard private superyachts. While the industry sells an image of opulence, stories like Bell’s highlight the dangers of working in remote, loosely regulated environments where crew members are often at the mercy of their superiors.
High CPM keywords that might relate to this tragic case include superyacht scandal, luxury yacht crime, Bahamas murder case, and crew safety at sea — all of which reflect growing public concern over accountability in the maritime industry.
Bell’s story is a painful reminder that beneath the sheen of high society luxury lies a need for reform, oversight, and justice for those who serve it.