Royal Caribbean sued after passenger’s death ruled a homicide

Michael Virgil, 35, died on a Royal Caribbean cruise; his death was ruled a homicide

Michael Virgil, 35, died on a Royal Caribbean cruise last year, and a medical examiner has officially ruled his death a homicide.

His fiancée, Connie Aguilar, is suing the cruise line, claiming it is partially responsible for serving him “at least 33 alcoholic beverages” before the fatal incident.

According to the lawsuit, Michael and Aguilar were traveling with their 7-year-old son when they were directed to a bar while waiting for their cabin. During that time, Michael was allegedly served dozens of drinks. In an intoxicated state, he became agitated while searching for their room, at one point trying to break down doors and removing his shirt.

Video footage shows him in the midst of the incident before security intervened.

NEW: Man dies on a Royal Caribbean cruise after being served 33 drinks, family accuses cruise staff of injecting him with a sedative.

35-year-old Michael Virgil was seen having a meltdown after getting off the elevator on the wrong floor.

The family says just hours after… pic.twitter.com/pNWcA6VekR

— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) December 8, 2025

The filing alleges that crew members administered a sedative injection and used multiple cans of pepper spray, which led to respiratory failure, cardiovascular instability, and cardiopulmonary arrest, ultimately resulting in his death. The court’s homicide ruling underscores the severity of the incident and the alleged actions of the ship’s staff.

Aguilar is seeking damages for loss of support, medical and funeral costs, past and future earnings, and emotional suffering.

Royal Caribbean said it was “saddened by the passing” and cooperated with authorities but declined further comment due to ongoing litigation.