Tragic Incident on MSC Virtuosa: Stag Do Victim Remembered as a ‘Lovely Gentleman’

A passenger aboard the MSC Virtuosa, James Messham, 60, tragically died following an altercation shortly after the ship set sail from Southampton on a stag do. The incident occurred while the vessel was still in British waters, prompting the ship to return and dock back in Southampton. There, Hampshire Police boarded the ship and arrested a 57-year-old man on suspicion of murder, who has since been released on bail as investigations continue.

Messham, described by friends and family as a "lovely gentleman," was involved in running a motorcycle stunt show called the Wall of Death. The altercation, which reportedly involved a party of 20 individuals, led to serious questions from authorities, as police seek to gather information from witnesses onboard.

It’s reported that several hen and stag parties were present on the cruise, contributing to a chaotic atmosphere. One passenger noted that an army medic aboard the ship tried to perform CPR on Messham but was unsuccessful.

The MSC Virtuosa, capable of holding over 6,300 guests, features various amenities such as a casino, a theater, and an arcade, having returned to Southampton from a planned trip to Zeebrugge. The cruise line is cooperating fully with police inquiries while offering support to those affected by the incident.

Authorities are urging anyone who witnessed the events to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.

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