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.
Messham, from Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex, is believed to have died as a result of injuries sustained during an onboard altercation.
First Arrest and Bail Update
A 57-year-old man from Exeter was the first to be arrested on suspicion of murder after the cruise ship returned to port. He has since been released on bail while investigations continue.
Police Appeal for Witnesses
Hampshire Constabulary is urging anyone aboard the MSC Virtuosa during the incident to come forward.
“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,” said a police spokesperson.
Information can be submitted by calling 101 and quoting crime reference 44250193676, or online via the Hampshire Police website.
Scene Described as ‘Chaotic’
Passengers have since spoken of the moment chaos broke out aboard the ship. One eyewitness described the “shocking scene” as crew members and medics rushed to assist, while others were evacuated from surrounding areas.
“It was mayhem,” one guest told local press. “Security were everywhere, and people were crying and confused.”
Ongoing Investigation
Hampshire Constabulary and forensic teams continue to gather evidence, including CCTV from onboard the vessel, witness statements, and potential post-mortem findings.
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.
