The devastated family of Paige Bell, a 20-year-old South African stewardess found dead aboard a luxury yacht in the Bahamas, is speaking out as the man accused of her murder appeared in court.
Bell, who was described by colleagues as a “radiant spirit,” was reported missing on July 3. Authorities from Eleuthera Island boarded the yacht around 1 p.m. and discovered her body in the engine room. According to police, she had visible injuries and was found alongside a man suffering from severe wounds to his arms.
The vessel was docked off Harbour Island, a location often nicknamed the “Billionaires’ Backyard” for its high-end resorts and elite clientele.
Suspect Charged with Murder
Authorities identified the suspect as Brigido Monoz, a 39-year-old Mexican national. He was transported to a nearby medical facility for treatment before being formally charged with murder. He appeared in a Bahamian Magistrates Court on July 9, where bail was denied. His next court appearance is scheduled for November 20.
Officials say the case is being investigated as a homicide, and that Monoz may have attempted suicide following the alleged killing.
.jpg)
Family Devastated: ‘We Will Leave No Stone Unturned’
Bell’s parents, Michelle and John Bell, traveled to the Bahamas shortly after learning of her death. In a public statement, her sister Chelsey Jacobs said the family is enduring “an unimaginable journey” and is focused on seeking justice.
In a heartbreaking Facebook post, the family wrote:
“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.”
Bell had been working aboard the Motor Yacht Sweet Emocean until late 2024 before joining her latest post on the Far From It, a 43-meter yacht known for offering high-end charters costing around $140,000 per week.
She would have celebrated her 21st birthday on July 14.
Tributes Pour In: ‘She Was Family’
A GoFundMe page has been launched by Bell’s former colleagues to help support her family and honor her memory.
“Paige was more than a teammate — she was family,” wrote Captain Frank Prest, who worked alongside Bell. “Her radiant spirit, infectious laughter, and boundless compassion made an unforgettable impact on everyone lucky enough to know her.”
The fundraising page also included a heartfelt request from her mother:
“In honor of Paige’s 21st birthday, Michelle asks that we all eat red velvet cake — her favorite — and share a photo to celebrate the beautiful soul she was.”
