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Cruise Death: Man Overdosed, Restrained?
9 Dec
Summary
- Man died on cruise after alleged over-serving of 33 alcoholic drinks.
- Lawsuit claims excessive force and fatal actions by crew members.
- Autopsy ruled death a homicide due to restraint and intoxication.
A family has initiated a wrongful death lawsuit against Royal Caribbean, alleging that a 35-year-old man died due to the cruise line's negligence. Michael Virgil was reportedly served at least 33 alcoholic drinks on the Navigator of the Seas, leading to intoxication and agitation. The lawsuit claims that crew members then used excessive force, including tackling, restraint, sedatives, and pepper spray, resulting in fatal hypoxia.
The official autopsy report classified Virgil's death as a homicide, citing "combined effects of mechanical asphyxia, obesity, cardiomegaly and ethanol intoxication." The report specifically noted injury from "body compression during restraint by multiple ship security personnel." The family's attorney stated that the cruise line prioritizes profit over safety and is negligent in hiring and training its employees.
Virgil's family is seeking damages under the Death on the High Seas Act for loss of financial support, earnings, and companionship, as well as funeral and medical expenses. Royal Caribbean has declined to comment on the pending litigation. This incident highlights ongoing concerns about passenger safety and the handling of altercations on cruise ships.
