According to reports, the engineer accused of murdering a crew member on board the 43.3-metre Richmond superyacht Far From It in the Bahamas has pleaded not guilty at an arraignment in front of the Supreme Court of the Bahamas.
On 3 July, 39-year-old Brigido Munoz was found in the yacht’s engine room alongside the body of 20-year-old South African stewardess Paige Bell when docked at Harbour Island in the Bahamas.
According to a preliminary report, police were alerted shortly after 1.00pm on 3 July and proceeded to the marina area. Upon boarding the vessel, officers discovered Bell unresponsive and with “visible injuries”, alongside Munoz, who was suffering from “severe injuries” to his arms. A local doctor pronounced Bell dead on site. Munoz was later arrested and charged with murder.
The engineer will now remain before the court as the case proceeds and is scheduled to return on 21 January 2026, when a trial date is expected to be set.
The tragic incident brought the industry out in force, including the crew of the 35.5-metre Sweet Emocean (the victim’s previous yacht), who began fundraising for her family. They released the following statement: “Paige was more than a teammate; she was family. 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.”
The tragedy reignited debate about safety in yachting, including renewed interest in a petition calling for background checks to be required for all crew.
Following Munoz’s arraignment, Bell’s friends and colleagues announced the launch of an industry initiative called Protecting Crew Lives (PCL). The group’s mission is to promote transparency, safeguarding and responsible engagement across the yachting sector.
