FBI Probes Ongoing Investigation Into Death of Passenger on Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship

LOS ANGELES—Authorities are continuing their investigation on Friday into the passing of a cruise ship passenger who reportedly exhibited aggressive behavior, pursued fellow passengers, and was restrained by crew members using zip ties shortly after departing from the Port of Los Angeles, destined for Ensenada, Mexico.

The passenger was subdued by the crew aboard the Royal Caribbean vessel last Friday. A cell phone video captured by another passenger and broadcast on several TV news networks shows the individual in a corridor, leaning against a cabin door and kicking it repeatedly, as crew members attempt to calm him down.

Further footage shows the individual on the ground, being restrained by crew members who used zip ties for safety.

“The gentleman who was intoxicated claimed he was going to kill us,” passenger Christifer Mikhail recounted to Fox 11. “He began chasing us down the hallway.”

Other passengers informed the station that the 35-year-old man, identified as Michael Virgil, attacked crew members and was attempting to forcibly enter a cabin to reach another crew member inside.

Virgil’s relatives told Fox11 that they suspect the ship’s security administered some sort of sedative, leading to his death within an hour. They mentioned he had a fiancée and a 7-year-old son with autism, who were also aboard the cruise, according to a family member’s statement.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of one of our guests,” stated the cruise line. “We have extended our support to the family and are cooperating with authorities during their investigation.”

The FBI has confirmed that it is looking into the circumstances surrounding the death.

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner has classified Virgil’s death as deferred, pending the results of further examinations.