Overview
- Michael Virgil’s fiancée filed a wrongful-death complaint in federal court in Miami, alleging crew served him at least 33 alcoholic drinks before an onboard confrontation.
- The suit says security restrained Virgil on the floor, used multiple bursts of pepper spray, and injected the sedative haloperidol, leading to respiratory failure and cardiac arrest.
- The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner determined the death was a homicide, citing combined effects of mechanical asphyxia, cardiomegaly, obesity, and ethanol intoxication.
- Court filings note Virgil had purchased the Deluxe Beverage Package and claim staff continued alcohol service despite visible intoxication, pointing to cruise alcohol policies and training.
- Royal Caribbean says it was saddened by the death, cooperated with authorities, and will not comment on pending litigation, as the family seeks damages under maritime law including the Death on the High Seas Act.