Cruise Ship Homicide: Texas Man Charged in Wife's Death

Jason Watford, 48, pleaded guilty to a murder charge in federal court in Galveston, Texas, after FBI agents said he struck his wife, Susan Watford, in their cabin following an argument. The couple had boarded the MSC Seascape in Galveston over the weekend before the ship returned to port after security discovered a body in the couple's room.

The incident began Sunday when the couple dined at one of the ship's restaurants. Watford told agents that a verbal dispute started during the meal and continued in their cabin. Court documents state that Watford said the escalating dispute caused him to 'snap.' He admitted to striking Susan several times and applying pressure to her neck.

Watford opened the cabin door for a ship housekeeper with blood on his hands and clothes. The housekeeper saw Susan on the floor with facial injuries and notified an investigator on board. Surveillance video showed Watford entering the room at 7:46 p.m. Susan entered approximately 25 minutes later. At 9:15 p.m., video showed Watford leaving the room wearing a different shirt and pants than those he wore when answering the door. He was seen sitting on the hallway floor looking at his phone.

The vessel returned to Galveston the next morning. Watford was taken into custody and escorted off the ship in handcuffs, an act captured on video by a passenger. A child was found unharmed when law enforcement responded to the cabin, according to FBI spokesman Connor Hagan.

Court records indicate a history of domestic violence between the couple. In September 2024, Watford was arrested in Smith County, Texas, after Susan reported that he grabbed her wrist during an argument over money. She recorded audio of the incident and used a stun gun to defend herself. Watford pleaded guilty to assault causing bodily injury to a family member and served 15 months of community supervision.

The MSC Seascape, which features 2,270 cabins and carries nearly 5,900 guests on Caribbean itineraries, resumed its voyage on Monday. The cruise line stated it is cooperating with authorities and providing support to those impacted by the incident.

Javier Martinez, the public defender assigned to Watford, did not respond to phone messages Tuesday. Watford's son declined to comment when reached by phone. The suspect's next court appearance is scheduled for Monday in Galveston.