Summary: The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is currently investigating sexual assault allegations that occurred aboard the Carnival Breeze cruise ship. The alleged incident took place during a 4-day cruise that began in Galveston, Texas, and ended on July 28, 2025. The FBI is also examining a separate death aboard the Carnival Dream cruise ship, which docked in Galveston on July 23. In both cases, the FBI is collaborating with U.S. Coast Guard, Customs and Border Protection, and the cruise line, while adhering to standard procedures for such cases. The FBI spokesperson emphasized that these investigations are routine and not indicative of any suspicious activity. The agency is also coordinating with Galveston County Medical Examiner’s Office, which identified the deceased as 48-year-old Euvelester Villarreal Jr., whose death was attributed to natural causes.
Investigations on Carnival Cruise Ships The FBI, based in Houston, has confirmed that the sexual assault allegations are under review, with a special emphasis on the Carnival Breeze ship. According to the FBI’s official statement, the incident was reported on the 4-day cruise, which departed from Galveston and included a stop in Cozumel, Mexico. The agency is working with various parties, including the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and Carnival cruise line to ensure the process is thorough and compliant with standard protocols.
Death on Carnival Dream Cruise Ship In addition to the sexual assault case, the FBI is also looking into a death that occurred aboard the Carnival Dream cruise ship. This incident took place on July 23 and was reported to authorities. The FBI has stated that such cases are handled routinely, and the investigation is focused on determining the cause of death. The Galveston County Medical Examiner’s Office has confirmed that the deceased, Euvelester Villarreal Jr., was 48 years old and passed away due to natural causes. This information was provided to the public to ensure transparency in the process.
FBI’s Role and Standard Practices The FBI has consistently maintained that its involvement in cruise ship incidents is part of its standard protocol. This includes cases involving sexual assault, death, and other criminal activities. The agency has noted that while it is involved in such investigations, the fact that these cases are being reviewed does not imply any criminal intent or suspicious circumstances. The FBI spokesperson emphasized the importance of transparency in these matters, particularly when it comes to the safety and well-being of passengers.
Collaboration with Other Agencies The FBI is working closely with the U.S. Coast Guard, Customs and Border Protection, and the Carnival cruise line to ensure that all aspects of these investigations are thoroughly examined. This collaboration is vital in determining the full facts of each case and ensuring that any legal or administrative actions are taken appropriately. The agency has also mentioned that it does not provide further details on the status of these investigations to protect the integrity of the process and the rights of the individuals involved.
Pending Responses from Carnival and FBI Fox News Digital has reached out to both the FBI and Carnival for official statements regarding these incidents. Both parties have not yet commented on the matter, and the FBI has stated that it will not provide additional details or updates on these ongoing investigations. The agency’s focus is on the thorough examination of the facts and ensuring that any necessary actions are taken to maintain the safety and security of all passengers and crew members aboard these cruise ships.
Conclusion These ongoing investigations highlight the FBI’s role in addressing criminal allegations and incidents that occur on cruise ships. The agency’s standard protocol ensures that such cases are handled professionally and transparently. As the FBI continues its review of both the sexual assault and the death on board the Carnival cruise ships, the results of these investigations will be crucial in determining the appropriate course of action and ensuring the safety of future passengers.