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The family of Paige Bell, a 20-year-old South African stewardess found dead aboard a luxury superyacht in the Bahamas, has spoken out following the arrest and court appearance of a man charged with her murder.
Bell, described by former colleagues as a “radiant spirit,” was reported missing on July 3. Police boarded the vessel docked near Harbour Island in the upscale Bahamas marina—often called a “billionaire’s playground”—and discovered her unresponsive with visible injuries in the yacht’s engine room. A man onboard, Mexican national Brigido Monoz, 39, was found suffering severe arm injuries and was immediately hospitalized. He has since been charged with Bell’s murder.
The accused appeared in a Bahamas Magistrate Court on July 9 and was denied bail, with his next court date set for November 20. Police are investigating the case as a homicide and suspected attempted suicide.
Bell’s parents, Michelle and John Bell, traveled to the Bahamas to begin the difficult process of bringing their daughter’s body home. Her sister, Chelsey Jacobs, expressed the family’s grief and determination to seek justice, calling Monoz “the monster that took [Paige’s] life.”
The Bell family announced Paige’s death publicly on July 4, saying, “It is with broken hearts that we share the devastating news that our beautiful Paigey’s life was brutally taken from us last night… We will leave no stone unturned until the guilty is brought to justice.”
Paige Bell was due to turn 21 on July 14. She had worked on the luxury Motor Yacht Sweet Emocean until December 2024 before joining the crew of the 43-meter yacht Far From It, which offers high-end charters costing upwards of £103,000 ($140,000) per week. The vessel accommodates up to 10 guests in five suites and features amenities such as a sundeck spa pool and panoramic views.
Her former crew members established a GoFundMe in her honor, remembering her warmth and kindness. Captain Frank Prest said, “Paige was more than a teammate, she was family. Her radiant spirit, infectious laughter, and boundless compassion made an unforgettable impact on everyone lucky enough to know her.”
In a touching tribute, Paige’s mother Michelle requested that friends and family celebrate her daughter’s upcoming 21st birthday by eating red velvet cake, Paige’s favorite, and sharing photos to honor her memory.
The investigation into Paige Bell’s tragic death continues as her family and loved ones mourn the loss of a bright young life taken too soon.
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Sarah Mitchell is a bestselling novelist recognized for her insightful and emotionally resonant stories that explore the complexities of human relationships. Originally from Denver, Colorado, Sarah grew up in a family of teachers who nurtured her curiosity and love for storytelling. She studied psychology at Stanford University, where she became fascinated by the intricacies of human behavior—an interest that would later shape her writing career. Sarah’s novels are praised for their nuanced characters, intricate plots, and ability to capture the subtle tensions that define love, friendship, and family ties. Her breakthrough novel, The Spaces Between Us, became an instant bestseller, lauded for its honest portrayal of strained family relationships and the fragile bonds that hold people together. Since then, she has published several works that continue to captivate audiences around the world. Outside of her writing career, Sarah is passionate about mental health advocacy and often partners with organizations to promote awareness and support for those struggling with emotional well-being. Her personal life is quieter—she enjoys hiking in the Colorado mountains, practicing yoga, and spending time with close friends. With each new book, Sarah Mitchell cements her reputation as a writer who illuminates the beauty and struggles of human connection.
