Galveston: FBI opens homicide probe on MSC Seascape
The vessel returned to port for a suspected killing, then departed again Monday afternoon while agents continue their inquiry.
By Olivia Miller ·
A suspected homicide has triggered a federal investigation aboard the MSC Seascape, which broke from its Caribbean route to dock in Galveston, Texas. The FBI confirmed the inquiry Monday, describing the case as a suspected homicide without releasing specific details about the victim or the circumstances.
The ship originally departed Galveston for a scheduled Caribbean itinerary. Upon learning of an incident involving a passenger, the crew was ordered by local authorities to turn back. The vessel returned to the port, allowing agents to begin their work. MSC Cruises stated that the ship has now resumed its voyage and left the dock again as of Monday afternoon.
Company officials said they are cooperating fully with investigators and providing support to those affected by the incident. The MSC Seascape is a large vessel featuring 2,270 cabins and carrying more than 1,600 crew members. It has a capacity for nearly 5,900 guests. The ship began operating out of Galveston last November, having previously been based in Miami.
Homicide investigations on cruise lines are rare. Earlier in 2026, a teenager was charged with murder and aggravated sexual abuse in the death of his 18-year-old stepsister on a Carnival Cruise ship departing from Florida. That case drew national attention to safety protocols at sea.
The FBI serves as the primary federal agency for investigating potential crimes on the high seas. The bureau noted its jurisdiction in a post on X. The agency said the investigation remains ongoing.
The next steps for the MSC Seascape follow its standard schedule. It will complete the remainder of its current five or seven night Caribbean stay. Passengers will disembark at their final port of call before the ship heads back to Galveston for its next scheduled departure.
