Tragedy struck in the Bahamas when Paige Bell, a 20-year-old South African crew member, was discovered dead on a superyacht shortly before her 21st birthday. Paige had been missing briefly before her body was found in the vessel’s engine room located in Harbour Island on Eleuthera Island on July 3, just after 1pm. Authorities from the Royal Bahamas Police Force noted that she exhibited clear signs of injury.
A 40-year-old Mexican man was also located in the engine room with serious arm injuries, which police suspect may have been a suicide attempt. He was subsequently arrested and transported to a clinic for medical care. This individual now faces murder charges and is scheduled to appear in court in November.
Paige, originally from Johannesburg, had worked on the superyacht Sweet Emocean until December, before taking a position on Far From It, a luxury charter vessel costing upwards of $140,000 per week. Her colleagues expressed their sorrow over her passing, referring to her as family and describing her vibrant spirit, infectious laughter, and unwavering compassion as qualities that made a significant impact on all who knew her. They shared heartfelt tributes through GoFundMe, highlighting how she brought joy whether during exhausting days at sea or in peaceful moments stargazing.
As the investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death continues, the maritime community mourns the loss of a young woman whose life was tragically cut short.