Over R1 Million Raised for Paige Bell’s Family as South Africans Mourn Tragic Loss

A wave of grief and generosity has swept across South Africa and beyond, as donations on a GoFundMe campaign set up in memory of 20-year-old Paige Bell have soared past the R1 million mark.

Bell, a South African stewardess from KwaZulu-Natal, was brutally murdered aboard a luxury superyacht in the Bahamas, just days before her 21st birthday. Now, her family, friends and former schoolmates are rallying together to honour her memory and bring her home.

A Life Cut Short on Foreign Shores

Described as a “golden girl” by those who knew her, Paige was working aboard the Far From It, a 142-foot, R225 million superyacht docked in the Bahamas, when she was allegedly sexually assaulted and murdered in the vessel’s engine room.

The accused, Mexican crew member Brigido Munoz, appeared in a Nassau court last week. He was remanded in custody and denied bail, with a formal hearing scheduled for November. According to court statements, Paige’s body was found partially clothed with multiple neck wounds and defensive injuries, suggesting she fought fiercely for her life. Munoz was discovered nearby with injuries on his own arms, in what police believe may have been a failed suicide attempt.

GoFundMe Campaign Nears Its Goal

The GoFundMe page, launched to ease the financial burden on the Bell family during this devastating time, has received a flood of donations and messages of support from around the world. As of this week, over $56 000 (more than R1 million) has been raised, inching closer to the $60 000 target.

Many donors have left heartfelt notes alongside their contributions, expressing their shock and heartbreak at the tragedy.

“She didn’t deserve this. May her soul rest in peace and her family find justice,” reads one message. Another simply states: “We will never forget you, Paige.”

Remembered as Joyful, Radiant, and Full of Promise

Paige’s former school, Hillcrest High School in KwaZulu-Natal, paid tribute to her on social media, sharing just how much of an impact she made on those around her.

“Paige matriculated in 2022 and is remembered by our community as an incredibly special young lady who was the happiest, most bubbly person,” the post read. “Her untimely and tragic death is a great loss to all who knew her.”

The school encouraged the broader Hillcrest community to donate and help the Bell family during this difficult time.

The Bigger Picture: Safety and Silence in the Superyacht Industry

Paige’s death has sparked difficult but necessary conversations about the dangers faced by young crew members in the luxury yacht industry. While often glamorised on social media, the reality for many working below deck includes long hours, isolation, and, in rare but tragic cases like this, vulnerability to violence.

As more people in the global yachting community speak out, Paige’s story is quickly becoming a painful wake-up call for change.

A Nation Holds its Breath

While her loved ones work through their unimaginable grief, the country continues to mourn with them. Paige Bell’s story is no longer just one of loss — it has become one of remembrance, resilience and a collective cry for justice.

As her GoFundMe edges closer to its goal, it’s clear that Paige will not be forgotten. She leaves behind a legacy of light, even in the darkest of times.

Source:The South African

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