A 35-year-old passenger on a Royal Caribbean cruise, traveling from Los Angeles to Baja California, tragically lost his life after an alleged drunken rampage less than an hour after departure from San Pedro. Identified as Michael Virgil, a father of a seven-year-old son, the incident took a violent turn as he reportedly clashed with crew members and other passengers on board.
Virgil, traveling on the luxury cruise with his partner and young autistic son, began causing a scene almost immediately after the cruise set sail. Eyewitnesses reported that he kicked a door, creating a commotion. A video captured by passengers showed Virgil engaging in violent behaviour with two crew members, including punching them and threatening other passengers. One passenger, Christifer Mikhail, described the incident, stating, “That gentleman was drunk. He could have flicked me and thrown me like 30 feet,” referring to the force with which the altercation took place.
As Virgil’s behaviour escalated, the security team aboard the cruise intervened. Initially waiting for the passenger to exhaust his energy, they eventually stepped in to subdue the situation. The deceased’s family claimed that Michael was sedated after the chaotic behaviour, but tragically, he passed away shortly after, less than an hour into the cruise.
Following the altercation and subsequent death, the FBI has launched an investigation into the matter. An autopsy is being conducted to determine the exact cause of death. The cruise staff is cooperating with authorities to provide all necessary details for the investigation.
Royal Caribbean issued a statement regarding the incident, expressing their sorrow over the tragic loss. The company said, “We are saddened by the passing of one of our guests. We offered support to the family and are working with authorities on their investigation.”
This incident has raised significant concerns about safety and protocols on board cruise ships, particularly in handling disruptive passengers. With the FBI investigation underway, more details are expected to emerge in the coming days.
