Crew member, 20, found dead on luxury yacht in Bahamas, mechanic, 39, charged for suspected murder

A young stewardess was found dead in a suspected murder onboard a luxury yacht last Thursday, just 11 days before her birthday.

Paige Bell, 20, was found unresponsive in the yacht's engine room with visible injuries, the Royal Bahamas Police Force confirmed with Daily Mail.

A doctor attending to the scene later confirmed that the young stewardess had died.

Some media, including Daily Mail, reported that her neck had been slashed.

The luxury yacht was docked at Harbour Island, Bahamas, when the incident occurred.

Bell, who was from Johannesburg, South Africa, worked as a guest relations officer on luxury motor yacht Far From It, The U.S. Sun reported.

Prices for the charter start from US$140,000 per week (S$179,263).

Mechanic arrested

39-year-old Mexican mechanic Brigido Muñoz, who worked with Bell below deck has been arrested for her suspected murder.

It is alleged that Bell fought back but was overpowered by her shipmate.

According to the Daily Mail, the mechanic was found near Bell's body and had severe injuries to his arm, which the police suspected to be a suicide attempt.

Muñoz has been charged for suspected murder.

The 39-year-old was denied bail and is scheduled to return to court on Nov. 20, Our News Bahamas reported.

Police are still investigating the motive for the murder.

Painful process

“This evening mom and dad are flying to the Bahamas to begin the painful process of not only bringing their baby girl home but also seeking justice for the monster that took her life," a statement from Bell's family wrote, as quoted by The U.S. Sun on Jul. 9.

“We are devastated beyond words and now we must also navigate complex and costly legal proceedings in a foreign country – something far beyond our financial means."

Top image via Crew & Concierge/Facebook and luxurychartergroup