DURBAN – A young woman from KwaZulu-Natal has tragically lost her life after being murdered aboard a luxury super-yacht in the Bahamas. Paige Bell, 20, was found dead on the "Far From It", a vessel estimated to be worth around R230 million, on 3 July. The yacht, which can cost up to $165,000 (about R2,938,557) a week to rent, was docked at Harbour Island, a popular luxury vacation destination known as a hotspot for billionaires.
The Royal Bahamas Police Force is currently investigating the incident as a homicide, with a suspected suicide attempt also being probed. According to police reports, officers were alerted to the incident at approximately 1pm on 3 July and proceeded to the marina area on Harbour Island, Eleuthera.
"Once on board the vessel, officers discovered a female unresponsive with visible signs of injuries and a male suffering from severe injuries to his arms," the police said in a statement. A local doctor was called to the scene and pronounced Bell dead.
Police investigations revealed that Bell had been missing for a short period before being found in the engine room of the yacht, alongside a 39-year-old Mexican national, Brigido Munoz. Munoz, who is suspected of the murder, was apprehended, cautioned, and taken to a nearby clinic for medical treatment. He has since appeared in court in Nassau.
According to the Daily Mail, the court heard that Bell was found partially undressed and may have been sexually assaulted. Prosecutors reportedly stated that Bell had wounds to her neck and defensive injuries to her arms, suggesting she fought for her life. Munoz was denied bail, and a hearing has been scheduled for 20 November.
Bell was working as a stewardess on the 142-foot yacht, which boasts six cabins and a cocktail bar, at the time of her death. The ship was listed for sale at $12.9 million (about R229,741,763) in 2020.
Her former colleagues have been left devastated by the news. Frank Prest, who captained the yacht "Sweet Emocean" where Bell previously worked until December 2024, described her as "family."
"Paige was more than a teammate, she was family," Prest said. "Her radiant spirit, infectious laughter, and boundless compassion made an unforgettable impact on everyone lucky enough to know her. Whether it was long days at sea or quiet moments under the stars, she brought light and warmth wherever she went."
To support Bell's family during this incredibly difficult time, her former crewmates have launched a crowdfunding campaign. "Whether you choose to donate, share a memory, or simply say a prayer, every gesture matters. Paige touched so many lives. Let’s come together to honour hers," they wrote on the fundraising page.
The campaign has already exceeded its initial goal, raising over $43,000 (about R765,806) as of Thursday morning.
Bell's family released a statement on Facebook, expressing their grief: "It is with broken hearts that we share the devastating news that our beautiful Paigey’s life was brutally taken from us last night. As a family, we are doing our best to process this unimaginable loss. We kindly ask for understanding and sensitivity during this incredibly difficult time."
The family added that Bell "was loved beyond measure and touched the lives of so many with her light, her ambition, and her beautiful spirit."
Bell's sister, Chelsey Jacobs, told Netwerk24 that her parents travelled to the Bahamas on Sunday to "bring their baby girl home" and "seek justice." She described the family as devastated and suffering a "heartbreaking loss."
Hillcrest High School, Bell's former school, also shared a message of condolence on social media, remembering her as "an incredibly special young lady who was the happiest, most bubbly person."
Bell would have celebrated her 21st birthday on 14 July. In her honour, her mother has requested that everyone eat red velvet cake, Bell's favourite, on that day "in remembrance of the beautiful soul she was."
The investigation into Bell's murder is ongoing. The Royal Bahamas Police Force has stated that they are still trying to determine the connection between Munoz and Bell, as well as his connection to the ship.
A friend of Bell's described her to the Mail as a "golden girl," calling what happened to her "despicable."
Harbour Island, where the yacht was docked, is a popular destination for the world's wealthiest individuals. It features a three-mile strip of pink beach and is known to be frequented by celebrities such as Bill Gates, Mick Jagger, Tom Cruise, and the Kardashians.
The South African community is in mourning following this tragic loss, with many expressing their condolences to Bell's family and calling for justice to be served.
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