Chaos on Cruise Ship Ends in Tragedy as Drunk Passenger Dies After Violent Outburst
A 35-year-old man, identified as Michael Virgil, has died following a violent incident aboard Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas cruise ship, according to Fox News. The ordeal unfolded shortly after the massive vessel departed from Los Angeles en route to Mexico, leaving passengers shaken and authorities investigating the tragic death.
According to eyewitnesses, Virgil began behaving erratically, shouting profanities and throwing punches at both passengers and staff. His actions escalated when he assaulted crew members, punching one and kicking another in the face. Chaos ensued as he attempted to kick down the door to a towel cupboard where a crew member was hiding.
Passenger Christifer Mikhail, who witnessed the terrifying scene, described the ordeal: “The gentleman that was drunk said he was going to kill us. He started chasing us down the hallway. I was kind of scared. I’m stuck in this hallway”, reported by the Express. Passengers also reported that Virgil spewed racial slurs during the incident, further adding to the panic on board.
Footage obtained by Fox11 shows Virgil in a frenzy, shirtless and attempting to break down a door. Following the violent outburst, crew members managed to restrain him using handcuffs and zip ties. Photos captured Virgil on the ground surrounded by ship security. Within an hour of being detained, he was pronounced dead.
Virgil’s family, now grieving the loss, has questioned the events that led to his death. A relative spoke to the media, saying: “He didn’t deserve to die over it.” They claim he had been injected with a sedative following his outburst, which they insist was out of character for him. His death leaves behind his wife and their seven-year-old son, who were both on board the cruise.
The FBI has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Virgil’s death. A statement confirmed: “The FBI responded to a Royal Caribbean cruise on Monday when it docked in Los Angeles and is investigating an incident on board that resulted in death.” The agency is working to determine what transpired in the final moments before Virgil passed away.
Royal Caribbean has expressed their condolences to Virgil’s family. A spokesperson for the cruise line said: “We are saddened by the passing of one of our guests. We offered support to the family and are working with authorities on their investigation.”
As the investigation continues, questions linger about the handling of the incident, leaving Virgil’s loved ones mourning a life lost too soon.