A superyacht engineer is accused of murdering the South African “golden girl” crew member found dead in the Bahamas just days before her 21st birthday.
Paige Bell’s body was found partially undressed in the ship’s engine room on July 3 after she was allegedly sexually assaulted and murdered by 39-year-old Mexican national Brigido Munoz, the Daily Mail reported.
Bell also had gashes on her neck and injuries on her arms that suggested she tried to defend herself before her death, according to the outlet.
When Munoz was initially found by authorities, he had injuries on his arms that indicated a possible suicide attempt. He was hospitalized before being charged.
Munoz was denied bail and will remain jailed until his Nov. 20 hearing, officials said, according to the outlet.
Bell and Munoz both worked aboard the Far From It superyacht that ran charters for nearly $140,000 a week. At the time, it was anchored off Harbour Island.
During her time yachting, Bell helped man high-end vessels for ritzy trips and was remembered fondly by her crewmates.
“Paige was more than a teammate, she was family,” wrote a crew member from one of her former boats, the Sweet Emocean.
“Her radiant spirit, infectious laughter, and boundless compassion made an unforgettable impact on everyone lucky enough to know her.”
Her mother still plans on celebrating her slain daughter’s birthday by indulging in red velvet cake — Bell’s favorite, according to a GoFundMe set up by her former colleagues.
Bell was set to turn 21 on July 14.
