Superyacht engineer allegedly sexually assaulted, murdered South African ‘golden girl’ crewmember: report

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Superyacht Engineer Accused of Murdering South African Crew Member

A tragic incident unfolded on a luxury yacht in the Bahamas, where a young South African crew member, Paige Bell, was found dead in the ship’s engine room just days before her 21st birthday. The prime suspect in her murder is identified as 39-year-old Mexican national, Brigido Munoz.

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

Bell’s body was discovered partially undressed, with signs of sexual assault and murder. She had defensive wounds on her arms and neck, indicating a struggle before her untimely death.

Brigido Munoz, who worked as a superyacht engineer alongside Bell on the yacht “Far From It,” was found with self-inflicted injuries when authorities apprehended him. He was hospitalized for his wounds and later charged with Bell’s murder.

Despite Munoz’s attempts at suicide, he was denied bail and is currently awaiting his hearing on November 20. The crew of the luxury yacht, which chartered for a significant sum of $140,000 per week, was shocked by the tragic turn of events.

Luxury yacht in the Bahamas — Bell had been working on the yacht Far From It, which charters for nearly $140,000 per week. Credit: motoryacht_farfromit/Instagram

Paige Bell was known for her hard work and dedication to the yachting industry. Her former crewmates described her as a beloved member of their team, with a radiant spirit, infectious laughter, and boundless compassion that touched everyone around her.

As her family prepares to commemorate what would have been Bell’s 21st birthday with her favorite red velvet cake, friends and supporters have set up a GoFundMe in her honor.

Despite the tragic loss of Paige Bell, her memory lives on through the hearts of those who knew and cherished her.