The family of a Southern California man has initiated legal action against Royal Caribbean Cruises, claiming the crew’s negligent actions contributed to his untimely death on one of their ships.

This wrongful death lawsuit, filed recently, focuses on the December 2024 incident involving 35-year-old Michael Virgil, who was traveling from San Pedro to Ensenada. The suit accuses the cruise line of serving Virgil an excessive amount of alcohol and then using undue physical force when he became disruptive.

According to the lawsuit, Virgil consumed over 30 alcoholic beverages while on board. The situation escalated when he couldn’t locate his cabin, leading to a confrontation with crew members.

“There’s footage of Michael in a state of agitation, kicking a door, which was completely uncharacteristic for him,” stated Kevin Haynes, the attorney representing Virgil’s fiancée. “We acknowledge the behavior wasn’t acceptable, but it didn’t reflect who he truly was.”

“Michael was a devoted father, often described as a ‘gentle giant.’ Alcohol can drastically alter behavior, particularly in such quantities. His family isn’t defending his actions, but they firmly believe his behavior shouldn’t have led to his death,” Haynes continued.

The legal documents also claim that during the incident, Virgil was pepper-sprayed and sedated.

The death investigation determined he died due to body compression while he was being restrained by multiple personnel and consuming alcohol.

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner ruled his death a homicide.

After Virgil’s death, Royal Caribbean issued a statement saying that they were saddened by the death of one of their passengers and that they were also cooperating with authorities.