Man Charged After Violent Assault on Cruise Elevator

A man from North Carolina is facing a felony charge following a violent assault that left another cruise passenger unconscious during a four-night voyage to the Bahamas aboard Liberty of the Seas. The incident occurred during the sailing that departed Port Everglades on Monday, April 14. Authorities arrested the suspect when the ship returned to Florida on Friday.

According to court documents and a report from the Broward County Sheriff’s Office, the altercation began when a male guest and a woman confronted a group of teenagers who were “jumping up and down” inside an elevator, causing it to shake.

The confrontation quickly escalated. “The group started yelling and saying, ‘B----, who are you talking to?’” wrote BSO Deputy Demetrius Williams, citing the victim’s version of events.

When the elevator doors opened on the eighth floor, the man and woman tried to exit, but were blocked by the group. “The kids did not move when the door opened, so he pushed through the crowd,” the report notes.

After exiting, the victim said he was struck in the face by multiple people, which caused him to fall. While on the ground, he stated that he was repeatedly kicked and eventually lost consciousness. He awoke in a pool of blood.

Eighteen-year-old Michael White was identified as one of the alleged attackers and was taken into custody upon the ship’s return to port. He has been charged with aggravated battery resulting in serious bodily injury.

Another suspect, whose name has not been disclosed, was also arrested in connection with the incident.

White was booked into the Broward County Jail and released on Saturday after posting a $5,000 bond.

Royal Caribbean maintains a strict guest conduct policy, which prohibits aggressive behavior, threats, or harassment. Such actions may lead to detention, removal from the vessel, or referral to authorities. Onboard security teams typically respond swiftly to such events and coordinate with law enforcement upon arrival in port.