Update: Police suspect American commits suicide

Police said they have determined that 33-year-old Daniel Godsey of Tennessee in the United States may have committed suicide aboard Norwegian Escape yesterday (April 19), adding that they also have been able to ascertain that the incident took place in British Virgin Islands (BVI) waters.

Cruise agents initially reported that the incident unfolded in the waters of the neighbouring US Virgin Islands.

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF), in a media release this afternoon, said: “Police are investigating the suspected suicide of a male cruise passenger, now that BVI Shipping Registry, police, and the cruise ship personnel have determined that the death in fact occurred in BVI waters early yesterday morning.”

“Cruise agents had originally stated that the incident had occurred outside BVI waters, and therefore reports would be made to the last port of call which was St Thomas [in the US Virgin Islands],” added the RVIPF.

It further stated that, based on inquiries, the Norwegian Escape passenger left his room around 3am yesterday.

“Shortly after, closed circuit cameras showed him in midair descending toward the water. His body was recovered some time later by members of ship’s crew. The ship later arrived at the Cruise Pier in Road Town. He was travelling with his wife at the time of the incident,” the RVIPF further said.

“Members of the BVI Tourist Board and the Crisis Intervention Team are providing the needed support to the wife of the deceased and the Coroner’s Office has been notified. Investigations are ongoing.”