Police have launched a murder investigation following the death of a passenger on board the MSC Cruises ship MSC Virtuosa at the weekend.
A man in his 60s died during an ‘altercation’ shortly after the ship left Southampton on Saturday evening on a two-night sailing to Zeebrugge.
A 57-year-old passenger was arrested on suspicion of murder when the ship returned to Southampton on Monday morning.
Hampshire Police said: “A homicide investigation has been launched following the death of a man in his 60s on the MSC Virtuosa on Saturday.
“It was reported that at around 8.30pm on 3 May, the victim died following an altercation. His next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.
“As part of our enquiries, a 57-year-old man from Exeter has been arrested on suspicion of murder. He remains in custody at this time.”
The men are believed to have been known to each other and were among a party of 20 on board.
Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Matt Gillooly 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.”
MSC Cruises issued a statement to say: “Following an incident on board our ship, the relevant authorities were contacted, and we are cooperating fully with their investigations. We are providing full support to those impacted and our thoughts are with the family and friends at this difficult time.”
Police have asked anyone who was on board who has information that could assist the inquiry to contact them on 101, quoting reference 44250193676.
