Stena Nordica voyage ends in tragedy as woman is found dead in restroom leading to onboard chaos and Garda-led investigation

A routine ferry journey took a grim turn when a woman was found dead in a restroom, setting off a violent altercation among passengers.

The unsettling events unfolded aboard the Stena Nordica as it sailed from Fishguard, Wales, to Rosslare Harbour, Ireland, on Tuesday.

Shocking Find in Ferry Restroom

The woman’s body was discovered at approximately 2 p.m. while the vessel was still at sea.

Reports indicate that a man was also found in the restroom with her.

Authorities were immediately alerted, and the ship’s captain made an emergency call for assistance around 5 p.m., shortly before the ferry docked in Rosslare.

Arrest Made as Investigation Unfolds

Upon arrival at Rosslare Harbour at 5:30 p.m., law enforcement, including armed Gardaí and the public order unit, boarded the ferry.

The man found with the deceased woman was taken into custody and is now being questioned by investigators.

Authorities have not yet disclosed details regarding the circumstances of her death, as they await post-mortem results.

Violent Brawl Erupts Onboard

Tensions ran high among passengers following the discovery, leading to what has been described as a ‘brawl’ onboard.

Witnesses recounted a chaotic scene as law enforcement worked to restore order.

The response from authorities was significant, with Gardaí and the National Ambulance Service forming what was described as a ‘ring of steel’ around the port.

Local Community in Shock

Rosslare residents and local officials expressed their sorrow over the incident.

Ger Carthy, a local councillor and ambulance officer, noted the deep sense of shock in the community.

“At the heart of this tragedy is a woman who lost her life, and our thoughts are with her family,” he said.

Ongoing Investigation and Next Steps

A Garda spokesperson confirmed that forensic teams have preserved the scene for examination.

The Office of the State Pathologist and local coroner have been notified, and a senior investigating officer has been appointed to lead the case.

A family liaison officer has also been assigned to support the deceased woman’s family.

As the investigation continues, Stena Line has directed all inquiries to Gardaí, emphasizing that this is now a police matter.

Meanwhile, a scheduled sailing from Rosslare to Fishguard was canceled following the discovery, leaving passengers and staff shaken by the tragic turn of events.

Authorities are expected to release further updates once the post-mortem results provide more clarity on the cause of death.