Cruise Ship Sailed On with Deceased Passenger’s Body in Fridge
A tragic incident unfolded aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise last year, resulting in the death of 35-year-old Michael Virgil. His fiancée, Connie Aguilar, claims that the cruise line continued its journey for days while his body was stored in a refrigerator.
Details of the Incident
According to a lawsuit, Aguilar pleaded with the crew to return to Long Beach after Virgil’s death, but her requests were reportedly ignored. She was traveling with Virgil and their 7-year-old son at the time.
Legal Action
The family’s attorney, Kevin Haynes, has filed a wrongful-death lawsuit. The suit alleges that crew members restrained Virgil using excessive force. Reports indicate that he was pinned down and injected with haloperidol, a sedative, before being exposed to pepper spray multiple times.
- Incident Date: Last year
- Victim: Michael Virgil, 35
- Survivors: Fiancée Connie Aguilar and their 7-year-old son
- Allegations: Crew members caused mechanical asphyxiation
Claims from the Lawsuit
The lawsuit argues that the crew’s actions led to Virgil’s death. It is claimed that he was held down for approximately three minutes, which, according to Haynes, triggered a series of events culminating in his fatality. Aguilar was left to cope with her grief during a cruise that would not change course.
This case raises serious concerns regarding the treatment of passengers aboard cruise ships and the protocols followed in emergencies. The family seeks accountability from Royal Caribbean for the events that transpired and the distress caused to Aguilar and her child.
