A man has died following a suspected fight on board a luxury cruise ship, prompting a murder investigation by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary.
The incident occurred at around 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 4, aboard the MSC Virtuosa, just hours after the vessel departed from Southampton. Police described it as an “isolated incident.”
The victim, a 60-year-old man, died while the ship was still in British waters. Following the incident, the MSC Virtuosa returned to port, where officers arrested a 57-year-old man from Exeter on suspicion of murder. He remains in police custody.
The ship was undertaking a short cruise to Bruges, Belgium. Operated by MSC Cruises, the Virtuosa is a well-known vessel offering voyages to a variety of destinations, including the Caribbean and Mediterranean. It was also used as a filming location for the Channel 5 drama The Good Ship Murder, which starred former X Factor winner Shayne Ward.
Detective Chief Inspector Matt Gillooly, the senior investigating officer, said:
“We want to reassure you that this appears to be an isolated incident on board, and we want to thank the crew for their cooperation and assistance with our enquiries.
“If anyone who was on board has information that could assist, please contact Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary on 101, quoting reference 44250193676.”
The victim’s next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.
Police said they are not seeking anyone else in connection with the incident at this time.
