Tourist sues for death of wife on cruise

Michael and Diana Mechling of Ohio came to Belize on a one day cruise in February. But their visit to the Jewel ended in tragedy when the couple went snorkeling at Goff’s Caye and Diana was slashed by the propellers of the tour boat. She was severely injured on her lower body and bled to death while being transported to Belize City for medical treatment. That was eight months ago and now, her husband is suing the Seattle-based cruise line, Holland America as well as the tour operator, Cruise Solutions Belize. Michael Mechling filed the wrongful death lawsuit this week in federal court in Ohio. He says his wife jumped into the water from the back of the boat on the instruction of the tour guides, but as the captain tried to steady the boat by reversing it, she was sucked underneath. After the incident, boat captain, Martin Pariente was charged with Negligently Causing Loss of Life and his boating license was revoked.