FBI Investigates Death of Passenger Detained Aboard Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship Departing Los Angeles

The FBI is investigating the death of 35-year-old Michael Virgil, a passenger aboard the Royal Caribbean cruise ship Navigator of the Seas. The incident occurred shortly after the ship departed from the Port of Los Angeles, bound for Ensenada, Mexico. Reports indicate that Virgil, who was reportedly intoxicated, became agitated and threatened other passengers and crew members. Witnesses described him as being belligerent, using racial slurs, and chasing passengers down a hallway. One passenger, Christifer Mikhail, recalled Virgil's threats, saying he had been chased down the corridor and threatened to kill them. Security personnel on board responded by deploying pepper spray and restraining Virgil with zip ties. However, despite these efforts, Virgil was pronounced dead about an hour later. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office has deferred the cause of death pending further tests, including toxicology results. Royal Caribbean expressed condolences for the incident, offering support to Virgil’s family and cooperating with authorities in the ongoing investigation. "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," the cruise line stated. Since the incident occurred offshore, the FBI is overseeing the investigation. They are collaborating with the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office to determine the cause of death, with results expected in six to eight weeks, pending toxicology testing. Virgil was reportedly traveling with his fiancée and their seven-year-old son, and family members have expressed that his behavior was uncharacteristic. His death has raised questions about how cruise ship security handles disruptive passengers and the protocols for dealing with such incidents. As the investigation continues, authorities are reviewing security footage and interviewing witnesses to understand the circumstances surrounding Virgil's death. (City News Source)