Lawsuit Claims Cruise Passenger Served 33 Drinks Before Death
A tragic incident aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise ship has led to a lawsuit, alleging negligence in the service of alcoholic drinks. The case involves Michael Virgil, a 35-year-old from Moreno Valley, California, who reportedly consumed at least 33 drinks before his untimely death.
Details of the Incident
Michael Virgil boarded the Navigator of the Seas on December 13, 2024, with his fiancée, Connie Aguilar, and their son. The family was en route to Ensenada, Mexico when the incident occurred. According to court documents filed in Miami, Florida, crew members allegedly overserved Virgil alcohol despite clear signs of his intoxication.
Overservice and Consequences
The lawsuit claims that, while intoxicated, Virgil became lost and agitated while trying to locate his cabin. In response, Royal Caribbean security intervened, reportedly subduing him with excessive force. The complaint suggests that the crew’s actions led to a series of distressing events, culminating in Virgil’s death.
Medical Response and Aftermath
In a disturbing turn, the ship’s captain allegedly authorized the injection of Haloperidol, a medication typically used for psychotic disorders, into Virgil. Reports indicate that multiple cans of pepper spray were also deployed. Virgil ultimately died while under the care of the Royal Caribbean staff.
Royal Caribbean’s Response
In a statement to the media, a spokesperson for Royal Caribbean expressed sadness over the loss and confirmed cooperation with ongoing investigations. The company has chosen not to comment further due to the pending litigation.
Negligence Claims
The lawsuit asserts that Royal Caribbean had a responsibility to refuse alcohol service to visibly intoxicated guests. Furthermore, it criticizes the cruise line for its marketing strategy, which promotes unlimited drink packages and easy access to alcohol throughout the ship. These practices, according to the complaint, directly contributed to the circumstances surrounding Virgil’s death.
Previous Incidents
- A similar lawsuit involved a 66-year-old woman, Dulcie White, who died after allegedly being overserved alcohol on a Royal Caribbean cruise in October 2024.
- Both cases cite the cruise line’s aggressive alcohol service policies as a contributing factor to the incidents.
As this troubling trend continues to surface, the lawsuits raise significant concerns about passenger safety and the responsibility of cruise lines in managing alcohol service on their vessels.
