Superyacht Engineer Accused of Murdering South African Crew Member in Bahamas Ahead of Her 21st Birthday

Paige Bell was found dead in the superyacht’s engine room on July 3, shortly before her 21st birthday

A 39-year-old Mexican national has been charged with the murder of Paige Bell, a young South African crew member found dead aboard a luxury superyacht anchored off Harbour Island in the Bahamas, just days before her 21st birthday.

Bell, described by friends and colleagues as a “golden girl” with a radiant spirit and boundless compassion, was discovered partially undressed and unresponsive in the vessel’s engine room on July 3. Authorities allege she was sexually assaulted and murdered by Brigido Munoz, the yacht’s engineer.

Paige Bell, 20, from Johannesburg, was found unresponsive in the vessel docked at Harbour Island last week

According to investigators, Bell suffered deep lacerations to her neck and injuries on her arms consistent with attempts to defend herself. Munoz was found shortly afterward with apparent self-inflicted wounds to his arms and was hospitalized before being taken into custody. He has since been charged with murder and denied bail. A court hearing is scheduled for November 20.

Both Bell and Munoz worked aboard the Far From It, a superyacht available for weekly charters priced around $140,000. Bell was remembered as a vibrant, compassionate presence within the close-knit yachting community. Colleagues from her previous vessel, Sweet Emocean, paid tribute to her online, calling her more than a crew member—she was family.

Superyacht engineer Brigido Munoz, 39, is accused of murdering Paige Bell

“Her radiant spirit, infectious laughter, and boundless compassion made an unforgettable impact on everyone lucky enough to know her,” a tribute read.

Bell's mother has vowed to honor her daughter’s memory on what would have been her 21st birthday, July 14, by enjoying a slice of red velvet cake—her daughter’s favorite. A GoFundMe page established by fellow crew members aims to support funeral expenses and honor Paige Bell’s life.

The tragic incident has sent shockwaves through the international yachting community, raising concerns over crew safety and the mental well-being of those working in high-pressure marine environments.

Bell had been working on the yacht Far From It — which charters for nearly $140,000 per week.