Murder investigation launched after KZN woman Paige Bell found dead on luxury yacht in the Bahamas

Investigations are under way after a 20-year-old KwaZulu-Natal woman was found dead on a luxury yacht in the Bahamas.

At this stage, reports indicate that Paige Bell’s lifeless body was found aboard the super yacht Far From It on July 3.

In a police report, from the Royal Bahamas Police Force, police on the Island of Eleuthera are investigating a homicide and suspected suicide attempt that occurred on July 3 on a vessel docked in Harbour Island that left a female of South African nationality dead.

According to the preliminary report, shortly after 1pm, police were alerted to the incident and proceeded to the marina area.

“Once on board the vessel, officers discovered a female unresponsive with visible signs of injuries and a male suffering from severe injuries to his arms. The local doctor visited the scene, examined the victim and pronounced her deceased.

“As police investigated further, it was discovered that the victim was missing for a short period before being found unresponsive in the engine room with the male suspect present.  The suspect, a 40-year-old male of Mexican nationality, was apprehended, cautioned, and taken to a nearby clinic for medical treatment. The investigation continues,” police said. 

Brigido Munoz has since appeared in court. The case was remanded to 20. 

 

Birthday plans

It is believed that Bell was due to return home on July 14 to celebrate her 21st birthday with loved ones.

Bell’s former high school, Hillcrest High School, paid tribute to her in a post, adding that she was a special young lady.

“It is with great sadness that we offer our deepest condolences to the family and friends, and all who knew and loved former Hillcrest High School pupil, Paige Bell. Paige matriculated in 2022 and is remembered by our HHS community as an incredibly special young lady who was the happiest, most bubbly person.

“We know that her untimely and tragic death is a great loss to all who knew Paige, and beyond devastating to her parents and family. As a school, we will be holding them in our thoughts and prayers,” the school shared.

Meanwhile, a Go Fund Me page has been set up to assist Bell’s family and so far, more than R700,000 has been raised so far. 

seanne.rall@iol.co.za

IOL