Man remains in custody after woman dies onboard passenger ferry headed to Rosslare

The Gardaí attend an incident onboard the Stena Nordica in Rosslare Europort on Tuesday evening. Picture: Jim Campbell

Gardaí have launched an investigation after a woman died onboard a ferry which docked at Rosslare Europort on Tuesday evening. 

A man was arrested in connection with the investigation and is currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984 at a Garda Station in the Eastern Region.

It is understood a “violent incident” occurred onboard the Stena Nordica ferry which was travelling to Rosslare from Fishguard in Wales and the ship’s captain made an emergency call for assistance.

Armed gardaí and the public order unit boarded the ferry when it docked in Rosslare and a crime scene was declared.

A number of ambulances also attended the scene, which was sealed off.

It is understood the 40-year-old Irish woman was part of a group travelling to Ireland.

In a statement, An Garda Síochána said: "Gardaí in Wexford are investigating all of the circumstances surrounding the death of a woman following an incident on board a passenger ferry en route to Rosslare, Co. Wexford this evening."

"Gardaí and emergency services were alerted to the incident shortly after 5.00pm and embarked the ship which is currently docked at Rosslare Harbour.

"A woman was later pronounced deceased and her body remains at the scene."

In an update on Wednesday, gardaí an autopsy is being carried out at Waterford University Hospital, the results of which will determine the nature and course of our investigation.

The man who was arrested remains in custody. 

A Senior Investigating Officer (SIO) has been appointed to lead the investigation and a Family Liaison Officer (FLO) has been assigned to provide support and information to the deceased’s family.

Gardaí said investigations are ongoing.

Stena Line said it cancelled its Rosslare to Fishguard sailing tonight following the incident.

All passengers on that crossing were accommodated by Irish Ferries on their 8.45pm sailing from Rosslare to Pembroke.

The Stena Line sailing from Fishguard to Rosslare, due to depart at 1.30am this morning, is  also cancelled.