The fiancée of 35-year-old Michael Virgil, who died on a Royal Caribbean cruise, has filed a wrongful death lawsuit, alleging the company served him over 33 alcoholic drinks and played a role in his death. The lawsuit claims that after becoming lost and frantic, Virgil was tackled by a crew member who stood on him, restraining him face down and causing him to struggle for breath. Despite this, crew members administered sedatives and pepper spray, leading to respiratory failure and cardiac arrest.
The Los Angeles County Coroner ruled the death a homicide due to mechanical asphyxia, obesity, an enlarged heart, and alcoholism. Video evidence shows Virgil displaying aggressive behavior before being subdued by security, with witnesses stating he needed help rather than force. The lawsuit argues that the crew was negligent in serving him alcohol despite clear signs of intoxication and that common maritime law requires the supervision of passengers at risk. The complaint also criticizes the ship’s medical staff for lacking qualifications and claims the ship encourages alcohol consumption throughout. The lawsuit, seeking unspecified damages and a jury trial, was filed in Miami, where Royal Caribbean is based.
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