The world of superyachts was left reeling after 20-year-old guest relations officer Paige Bell was brutally murdered aboard the $12.9 million luxury vessel Far From It, docked in Harbour Island, Bahamas. The alleged killer: a fellow crew member, a 39-year-old Mexican engineer, now charged with her murder.
Bell, known as the welcoming face of the lavish yacht, was attacked in the engine room shortly after the vessel moored. Though reports suggest she fought bravely, she was ultimately overpowered. Authorities are still investigating the motive, and whether she was sexually assaulted has not been confirmed.
The attack occurred just days before her 21st birthday celebration, planned by her boyfriend, Franco Kritzinger, who also worked aboard the yacht as a tender skipper. The crew became alarmed when Paige stopped responding to calls. A search led to a horrifying discovery below deck: her lifeless body beside the suspect, who had slashed both wrists in a failed suicide attempt, according to The Mirror US.
Police responded around 1 p.m. on July 3, finding the suspect alive and bleeding. He has since appeared before the New Providence magistrates’ court, formally charged with murder. The tragic loss of the popular South African stewardess sent shockwaves through Harbour Island—a playground for billionaires and celebrities, including Bill Gates, Tom Cruise, and Prince Harry.
The marina where the yacht was docked was sealed off as forensic teams combed the 142-foot vessel. Bell had recently joined Far From It, leaving a smaller charter yacht, Sweet Emocean, in December. She was training to become a Chief Steward and eventually earn her Skipper’s license.
“She was last seen kissing Franco goodbye before taking the tender out,” a friend said. “They found her dead by the engineer, who had wounds suggesting a struggle. Everyone is shattered.”
Her grieving family, including parents Michelle and John, flew to the Bahamas to bring their daughter home. Her sister, Chelsey Jacobs, said, “Our family is facing an unimaginable journey… seeking justice against the monster that took her life.”
A GoFundMe, launched by her former captain Frank Prest, surpassed its $16,000 goal, raising over $42,000. Prest described her as “more than a teammate,” recalling her “radiant spirit, infectious laughter, and boundless compassion.”
Fellow crew members expressed anger on social media, calling for mandatory background checks for all yacht staff. “No one ever thought the danger would come from within,” one post read.
Bell’s boyfriend, Franco, returned to South Africa, sharing a tribute: “My Angel, you were the brightest star… You will forever be my everything.” The investigation continues as the yachting community mourns the loss of one of its own.
