A South African woman working on a luxury superyacht in the Bahamas was found dead just days before her 21st birthday — and police say she was murdered.

Paige Bell, 20, was discovered unresponsive in the engine room of the nearly 150-foot yacht Far From It on July 3. Authorities have charged a 39-year-old man from Mexico with her murder, per the Daily Mail. He was found near her body with self-inflicted injuries to his arms, which police believe may have been a suicide attempt. He was treated at a hospital before being formally charged.

The yacht, which rents for around $140,000 a week, was docked in the Bahamas at the time. It’s still unclear what exactly led to Bell’s death or what connection the suspect had to her or the vessel.

Bell, who was from Johannesburg, was described by friends and former employers as a “golden girl” with a bright future in the yachting world. She would have turned 21 on July 14. The investigation is ongoing.

Paige Bell’s former crew from the Motor Yacht Sweet Emocean has set up a GoFundMe to support her family after her tragic death.

Captain Frank Prest, Captain Stephan Coetzer, former Captain Arnold Heins, Owner’s Rep Andrew Dyet, Bruce, Kathy, and all current and past crew members shared their heartbreak, calling Paige more than just a teammate — she was family.

Paige worked on Sweet Emocean until December 2024 and was remembered for her bright spirit, warm heart, and the joy she brought to everyone around her, whether during long days at sea or peaceful nights under the stars.

The fundraiser aims to ease the financial burden on her loved ones, with all donations going directly to the Bell family. So far, over $43,000 has been raised.