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Cruise Passenger's Death Ruled Homicide After Alleged Over-Serving
9 Dec
Summary
- Passenger allegedly served over 33 alcoholic drinks before dying.
- Death ruled a homicide due to crew's actions and excessive alcohol.
- Lawsuit filed by fiancée against Royal Caribbean for wrongful death.
A lawsuit has been filed against Royal Caribbean concerning the death of Michael Virgil, 35, aboard the Navigator of the Seas. The complaint states Virgil, who had an all-inclusive drink package, was allegedly served at least 33 alcoholic beverages on December 13, 2024, leading to visible intoxication. Crew members are accused of negligently continuing to serve him alcohol despite his condition.
Following an alleged drunken and threatening outburst where Virgil was seen kicking a door, ship security intervened. According to the complaint, crew members tackled Virgil, applied significant pressure while he was restrained face down, and administered a sedative and pepper spray. This restraint allegedly impaired his breathing and caused hypoxia.
The County of Los Angeles Medical Examiner ruled Virgil's death a homicide, citing mechanical asphyxia, obesity, heart condition, and alcohol intoxication. The ruling indicated that the excessive force and over-serving of alcohol directly contributed to his death. His body was reportedly kept refrigerated on the ship until its return to Los Angeles.
