Man Killed In Altercation With Cruise Security After Being Served 33 Drinks

The family of Michael Virgil, a 35-year-old man who died aboard Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas, has filed a lawsuit against the cruise line. Virgil died during a four-day cruise from Los Angeles to Ensenada, Mexico, in December 2024. According to the lawsuit, Virgil was allegedly served 33 alcoholic drinks on the day of his death. The complaint, filed in the Southern District of Florida, claims that Royal Caribbean is responsible for his death due to overserving alcohol and the actions of its crew members.

The lawsuit alleges that after Virgil became agitated, crew members attempted to subdue him, using physical force and pepper spray, and injected him with a sedative, haloperidol. An autopsy ruled his death a homicide, citing the combined effects of mechanical asphyxia, obesity, cardiomegaly, and ethanol intoxication. The family claims the cruise line failed to monitor passengers' alcohol consumption and improperly trained its staff.

Royal Caribbean expressed sadness over Virgil's passing and stated that they cooperated with authorities during the investigation. The lawsuit seeks a jury trial and damages for loss of support, future earnings, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.