Suspect bailed as murder investigation into cruise ship death continues

Hampshire Constabulary launched the investigation after the man, who is from West Sussex, died on board the MSC Virtuosa while it was still in British waters on Saturday May 3. A 57-year-old man from Exeter in Devon, who was arrested on suspicion of murder, has released while the investigation continues.

Police are urging anyone who was travelling on the ship who might have some key information to get in touch.

A police spokesperson said: “Officers are continuing their inquiries into the death of a 60-year-old man from West Sussex on board the MSC Virtuosa, which happened around 8.30pm on Saturday (May 3).

“We remain keen to hear from anyone who was aboard the ship, which had departed Southampton around 6pm on Saturday and was still in British waters at the time.”

The ship returned from Belgium to Southampton on Monday and it is believed that the man who died was part of a stag party on board the ship. The MSC Virtuosa is operated by MSC Cruises and has a capacity of 6,334 guests.