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- calendar_today November 10, 2026
FBI Investigates Fatal Incident on MSC Seascape Cruise Ship
A Texas man has been accused of murdering a woman in their cabin aboard the MSC Seascape cruise ship, following an argument that allegedly escalated into violence. The incident took place shortly after the vessel departed from Galveston, Texas, according to court documents and statements from the FBI.
Alleged Argument Led to Fatal Attack
Court documents reveal that Jason Watford, 48, of Tyler, Texas, told FBI agents he struck and choked the woman on Sunday night after a dispute caused him to “snap.” Watford and the woman had reportedly boarded the MSC Seascape together and began arguing during dinner at one of the ship’s restaurants. The altercation continued in their cabin, where the deadly attack is said to have occurred.
Discovery and Response Onboard
The victim, who has not been publicly identified, was found dead in the cabin with multiple facial injuries, as detailed in an FBI affidavit filed in federal court. The discovery was made by a housekeeper delivering towels, who saw the woman lying motionless on the floor and alleged blood on Watford’s hands and pants when he answered the door.
Watford’s Statements and Surveillance Evidence
According to the affidavit, Watford confessed to agents that he struck the woman several times and applied pressure to her neck for four to five minutes. He stated that she remained motionless for approximately ten minutes until the housekeeper arrived. Surveillance footage reportedly showed Watford entering the room at 7:46 p.m., followed by the victim about 25 minutes later. At 9:15 p.m., Watford was seen leaving the cabin wearing different clothing and sitting on the hallway floor using his phone.
Law Enforcement and Cruise Line Response
The ship’s crew reported the incident to authorities, and the MSC Seascape was instructed to return to Galveston, arriving Monday morning. Watford was being held at a county jail and was scheduled for an initial federal court appearance on a murder charge in Galveston. It was not immediately clear if he had legal representation.
MSC Cruises stated the company is cooperating with the investigation and providing support to those affected. The cruise line reported that the vessel resumed its journey after authorities completed their initial response.
Rare Occurrence of Homicide at Sea
Murder investigations on cruise ships are uncommon, highlighted by a separate incident earlier in the year involving an 18-year-old victim on a Carnival Cruise ship out of Florida. The Galveston incident brings renewed attention to ship passenger crime and law enforcement procedures involving cruise vessels departing from U.S. ports.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into the MSC Seascape incident continues, with the FBI and local authorities working to determine further details. No additional information about the victim has been released at this time.
Related coverage
Source: mysanantonio.com.
