The MSC Seascape cruise ship returned unexpectedly to Galveston, Texas on November 9, 2026, one day after departing on a seven-night Western Caribbean voyage. The ship left Galveston at 4 p.m. on November 8 and was set to return on November 15 after stops in Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico, and Roatan, Honduras. Authorities ordered the early return following a reported incident involving a guest onboard.
Law Enforcement Response and Detention
The FBI Houston is leading a suspected homicide investigation tied to the MSC Seascape and confirmed agents responded to the ship after it docked in Galveston. Jason Leon Watford, age 48, was detained by
the Port of Galveston Police Department and transferred to Galveston County Jail under an FBI hold connected to the murder inquiry. The FBI Texas City Resident Agency is coordinating with the U.S. Coast Guard, Customs and Border Protection, the Port of Galveston Police Department, and MSC Cruises in the investigation.
Ship Specifications, Itinerary, and Cruise Line Actions
The MSC Seascape, a vessel entering service in 2022 and sailing under the flag of Malta, features 2,270 cabins over 19 decks. It is capable of carrying more than 5,800 passengers with approximately 1,600 crew members. Its seven-night itinerary from Galveston to Mexico and Honduras includes Costa Maya as the
first port of call. MSC Cruises reported the onboard incident which prompted authorities to order the ship’s return to port. After the investigation began, the Seascape left Galveston again to resume its planned itinerary.
Official Statements on Investigation and Cooperation
An FBI Houston spokesperson said, “FBI Texas City is responding to a suspected homicide onboard the MSC Seascape cruise ship that docked in Galveston on November 9, 2026.” An MSC Cruises representative stated, “We are cooperating fully with the investigation and providing support to those impacted. The ship has left the port and resumed its planned itinerary.” The cruise line declined to provide further details, citing
the active nature of the investigation, and expressed sympathy for the guest’s family and friends.
Details Undisclosed Amid Active Investigation
Authorities have not disclosed when or where aboard the ship the suspected homicide occurred, nor the cause or motive of death. The identities and backgrounds of the victim and others involved remain undisclosed. No additional suspects beyond Jason Leon Watford have been identified publicly. The FBI remains the primary federal agency authorized to oversee criminal investigations on cruise ships, working closely with local and federal partners during such incidents.
