In a devastating incident that has shaken the global yachting community, Paige Bell, a 20-year-old superyacht crew member from Johannesburg, South Africa, was found dead aboard a luxury vessel just days before she was set to celebrate her 21st birthday.
The tragedy occurred on July 3, 2025, while the 147-foot yacht Far From It was anchored near Harbour Island, Bahamas—a destination known for its pristine waters and high-end tourism. The vessel, which charters for approximately $140,000 per week, was the site of an alleged assault and murder that has sparked global outrage and grief.
A Promising Life Cut Short
Bell’s body was discovered in the engine room, partially undressed and unresponsive, according to the Royal Bahamas Police Force. Authorities believe she was sexually assaulted and murdered. A doctor on-site later confirmed her death.
The primary suspect, Brigido Munoz, a Mexican national and engineer aboard the yacht, was reportedly found near her body with self-inflicted injuries. Investigators believe he may have attempted suicide following the incident. Munoz was treated at a local hospital and has since been formally charged with Bell’s murder. He is currently in custody without bail and is set to appear in court on November 20.
Remembering Paige Bell
Originally from Johannesburg, Bell was known among friends, family, and colleagues as a vibrant and compassionate young woman with a bright future in the yachting industry. Just beginning to make her mark, she had worked aboard several vessels, quickly earning a reputation for her warmth and professionalism.
“She was more than a teammate, she was family,” wrote a fellow crewmember from the yacht Sweet Emocean, one of her former placements. “Her radiant spirit, infectious laughter, and boundless compassion made an unforgettable impact on everyone lucky enough to know her.”
The tribute continued:
“Whether it was long days at sea or quiet moments under the stars, she brought light and warmth wherever she went.”
Her tragic passing has left a void in the tight-knit superyacht community, where crew often live and work in close quarters, forming bonds that resemble extended family.
A Global Call for Safety in Luxury Maritime Work
While the investigation remains ongoing, Bell’s death raises serious concerns about crew safety aboard luxury vessels, especially in remote or international waters where oversight can be inconsistent. Many superyacht professionals are young and travel far from home, often under intense working conditions that can sometimes go unchecked.
Advocates in the maritime industry are now calling for:
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Stricter crew screening and background checks
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Enhanced onboard safety protocols
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Mental health and harassment prevention programs
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Stronger legal protections for international crew members
For many, Paige Bell’s story serves as a chilling reminder that even in the world of luxury travel, danger can lurk behind closed hatches.
Seeking Justice and Answers
Authorities in the Bahamas continue to investigate the exact sequence of events leading up to Bell’s death. For now, her loved ones and the global yachting community are left grappling with grief, unanswered questions, and the haunting image of a young life stolen far too soon.
Sources:
Royal Bahamas Police Force, Daily Mail, New York Post, Kerrville Pets Alive
