Second Suspect Held as Probe Deepens into Cruise Ship Death
A second man has been arrested following the death of James Messham, a cruise ship passenger who died after an altercation onboard the MSC Virtuosa while it was in British waters.
The 56-year-old suspect, from Richmond, London, was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter and is currently in custody, police confirmed today (Saturday, May 11).
Timeline of the Tragedy
The MSC Virtuosa had departed Southampton around 6pm on Saturday, May 3, for a short voyage to Belgium. The fatal incident occurred that same evening while the ship was still within UK jurisdiction.
The MSC Virtuosa, one of the largest cruise ships in Europe, remains under scrutiny as police attempt to reconstruct the full events leading to Messham’s death.
What Happens Next?
Authorities have not ruled out further arrests. The second man’s arrest suggests new leads have emerged since the initial inquiry began earlier this week.
The cruise operator MSC Cruises has yet to release a detailed statement but is believed to be fully cooperating with authorities.
Stay with us for further updates on this developing story.
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More from Hampshire Police
View all Hampshire Police coverage
- Missing Man Alert in Winchester: Police Seek Help
- Afghan Migrant Jailed for Sick Sex Attacks on Three Women Walking to Work
- Man Jailed for Over Three Years for Coercive Control and Strangulation in Hampshire
- Miracle Escape as Light Aircraft Crashes onto Lee-on-the-Solent Beach
- Portsmouth Mother and Daughter Killed in Horror A3 Crash
- Man Found Dead in Southampton Park as Emergency Crews Swarm Scene — Emergency Services Respond