The passenger who jumped to his death from the world’s largest cruise ship earlier this year has been identified as a military veteran suffering from PTSD who had just fought with his wife.
Retired Lieutenant Colonel James Bryan Wright, 53, got into a “physical altercation” with his wife, Tracie Wright, one day into a week-long Royal Caribbean cruise headed to the Caribbean on May 26, according to a Miami Dade Police report obtained by The Independent.
“Shortly after the altercation Mr. Wright exited the cabin at which point he made his way to Deck 5 where he entered a secure gated area and proceeded to jump off the ship,” the report said.
Wright was a veteran who suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from serving more than 30 years in the military, the report said.
The massive ship, which holds 7,600 passengers and 2,350 crew, was halted for about two hours as a search for Wright got underway.
His body was recovered by Royal Caribbean staff who were unable to revive him. He was pronounced dead soon after.
Wright’s obituary notes he was a “decorated veteran who honorably served his country for 30 years,” beginning in May 1988 when he enlisted in the South Carolina Air National Guard.
He served in many positions and “had the honor of presenting numerous Purple Hearts and other distinguished decorations to many heroes who served so selflessly to protect the freedoms we all enjoy,” according to the obituary.
Tributes left on his obituary page by former classmates and people who served with him called Wright “a wonderful human being” and “a good officer and good friend.”
“I am truly sadden by Bryan’s death. What a wonderful human being and just person. Bryan was so humble and always demonstrating compassion and understanding. I always enjoyed being in his presence,” one person wrote.
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can dial the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention hotline at 988 or go to SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.
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