A woman has tragically died following what authorities have described as a “serious incident” aboard the Stena Nordica ferry, which docked at Rosslare Europort earlier this evening.
The ferry, which had sailed from Fishguard in Wales, arrived at Rosslare at approximately 5:30pm when an emergency was declared due to a violent incident on board.
Emergency Response and Crime Scene Declared
According to initial reports, the ferry’s captain issued an emergency call for assistance as the vessel neared Rosslare, alerting authorities to a potentially dangerous situation onboard.
Upon docking, armed Gardaí and the Public Order Unit swiftly boarded the ferry. A crime scene has since been established, and the area around the ship has been cordoned off as investigations begin.
A Garda spokesperson confirmed:
“We are currently dealing with a serious incident on board a ferry docked at Rosslare Europort. A woman has been fatally injured, and a crime scene has been declared. Armed Gardaí and the Public Order Unit are at the scene, and enquiries are ongoing.”
Details of the Incident
Though details remain limited, it is understood that the woman sustained fatal injuries during an altercation on the Stena Nordica. The circumstances surrounding the incident are yet to be fully determined, but Gardaí have stated that they are treating the case as suspicious.
Passengers on board the ferry have been asked to remain available for questioning, and the vessel has been temporarily secured as a crime scene.
Passenger Accounts
One passenger, who wished to remain anonymous, described the tense atmosphere on board:
“We were told there was an emergency as we were nearing Rosslare, but no one really knew what was happening. When the Gardaí arrived, they moved quickly and cordoned off part of the ship. It was very unsettling.”
Ongoing Investigation
Gardaí have launched a full investigation into the incident and are currently working to establish the timeline of events and identify any witnesses.
“Our priority is to understand the circumstances that led to this tragic incident,” said the Garda spokesperson. “We urge anyone with information or who may have witnessed anything unusual on board the Stena Nordica to come forward.”
Appeal for Witnesses
Authorities are appealing to any passengers or crew members who may have seen or heard anything related to the incident to assist in the investigation.
- Contact Gardaí: Call Wexford Garda Station on 053 916 5200
- Confidential Line: Call Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111
Stena Line Responds
Stena Line, the operator of the Stena Nordica, has issued a brief statement:
“We are aware of a serious incident aboard the Stena Nordica and are fully cooperating with Gardaí in their investigation. Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the deceased at this difficult time.”
The ferry service between Fishguard and Rosslare has been temporarily suspended as the investigation continues.
More updates will be provided as information becomes available.
