Exeter Man Arrested After Fatal Cruise Ship Altercation

A murder investigation is underway after a man was killed aboard a luxury cruise ship shortly after it left Southampton. Police say a 60-year-old man died following an altercation on board the MSC Virtuosa around 8:30pm on Saturday.

A 60-year-old man has died following a reported altercation aboard a luxury cruise ship, prompting a murder investigation and the arrest of a 57-year-old man from Exeter. The incident occurred just hours after the MSC Virtuosa departed from Southampton, turning a holiday voyage into a crime scene within its first day at sea.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary confirmed that the fatal incident happened around 8:30pm on Saturday, May 3, while the ship was still in British waters. Due to the serious nature of the event, the cruise ship returned early to Southampton, docking on the morning of Monday, May 5, where police boarded the vessel and arrested the Exeter man on suspicion of murder.

The identity of the 60-year-old victim has not yet been made public. Authorities say the man died following an "altercation" on board, though further details of the incident have not been disclosed as investigations are ongoing. It is believed the altercation took place in a public area of the ship.

Police have confirmed that the victim’s next of kin have been informed and are receiving support from specialist officers.

In a statement, Detective Chief Inspector Matt Gillooly said:

“We understand incidents like this can cause concern, particularly given the nature of the environment onboard a cruise ship. We want to reassure the public and passengers that this appears to be an isolated incident involving individuals known to each other, and we are not seeking anyone else in connection with this investigation at this time.”

DCI Gillooly also expressed gratitude for the cooperation of MSC Virtuosa’s crew:

“We are grateful to the staff and crew on the ship for their swift response and continued assistance with our enquiries. Their cooperation has been invaluable to our investigation.”

The MSC Virtuosa, one of the largest ships in MSC Cruises’ fleet, had only recently departed Southampton when the incident took place. The ship offers luxury amenities and entertainment for thousands of passengers, making the sudden return and police intervention all the more shocking for those on board.

Police are now appealing for witnesses and information from anyone who may have seen or heard anything relevant to the altercation.

“We would like to hear from anyone who was on board the ship at the time and who may have information that could help our investigation,” said DCI Gillooly. “Please contact Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary on 101, quoting reference 44250193676.”

As of now, the arrested Exeter man remains in custody for questioning.