A woman who went over a balcony on a cruise ship near Southern California’s Santa Catalina Island died by suicide, the Los Angeles County medical examiner said Thursday.
The woman, identified as 24-year-old Briana Miller, died April 27 on a Carnival Cruise Line ship off the Los Angeles County coast. She went over the balcony of her stateroom on the Carnival Firenze and landed on a deck below, according to the cruise line.
An investigation was underway after a woman appeared to have fallen over the balcony of her Carnival Cruise Line room and died. This video was broadcast on the NBC4 News at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, April 28, 2026.
Miller was traveling with her family, who alerted the crew of the incident.
The cause of death was blunt trauma, indicating some type of forceful impact, according to the medical examiner’s office.
“Carnival’s Care Team is supporting the guest’s family, and our thoughts and prayers are with them and their loved ones,” spokesperson Julie Leonardi said in an earlier statement.
The FBI confirmed to NBC News it is investigating the death of the passenger.
The ship embarked on a four-night cruise that included stops in Catalina Island and Ensenada, but the tragedy occurred before it reached Catalina Island.
The 1,000-foot-long Carnival Firenze is an Italian-themed ship with Italy-themed bars and restaurants. The company’s website describes the “Terrazza staterooms” as “a stylish, comfy place to unwind from all the fun,” and includes access to a private deck.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or chat live at 988lifeline.org. You can also visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for additional support.