Overview
- The wrongful-death suit was filed Dec. 8 in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida by fiancée Connie Aguilar on behalf of Michael Virgil’s estate.
- The complaint alleges crew served Virgil at least 33 alcoholic beverages after directing the family to a bar when their cabin was not ready, noting he had purchased the Deluxe Beverage Package.
- The filing says security restrained Virgil, used multiple cans of pepper spray, and administered haloperidol, actions the suit claims caused hypoxia, respiratory failure, and cardiac arrest.
- The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner ruled the death a homicide, citing combined effects of mechanical asphyxia, obesity, cardiomegaly, and ethanol intoxication, with body compression during restraint noted.
- Royal Caribbean said it was saddened, cooperated with authorities, and would not comment on pending litigation, as the family seeks damages including under the Death on the High Seas Act.