MIAMI – Federal investigators are examining the circumstances surrounding the death of an 18-year-old Florida woman aboard a Carnival Cruise line vessel earlier this month. anna Kepner,a high school cheerleader from Titusville,was found deceased on the Carnival Horizon on November 8th,prompting an FBI investigation that is now focusing on her stepbrother as a person of interest. The case underscores the potential for serious incidents to occur during what are often considered relaxing vacation experiences, and raises questions about safety and security protocols at sea.
MIAMI – The FBI is investigating the death of an 18-year-old Florida high school cheerleader aboard a Carnival cruise ship earlier this month, with investigators focusing on her stepbrother as a person of interest, according to sources familiar with the case. The investigation highlights the potential for serious incidents even on popular leisure travel options like cruise vacations.
Anna Kepner, of Titusville, Florida, was found deceased on the Carnival Horizon on November 8th. Authorities discovered her under a bed, wrapped in a blanket and covered with life vests, a security source reported. The Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner has not yet released a cause or manner of death.
While no criminal charges have been filed in connection with Kepner’s death, investigators are exploring the possibility of a dispute with her stepbrother prior to the incident, ABC News reported. Other potential causes, including a medical emergency or overdose, are also being considered.
The FBI’s involvement emerged during a court hearing on Monday related to a separate divorce case involving Thomas Hudson and Shauntel Hudson, who identified the father of Kepner as her partner. Shauntel Hudson, along with Kepner and her own minor children, were traveling on the cruise with the girl’s father.
Hudson was informed by FBI investigators and her attorneys that one of her children could be subject to criminal proceedings. Her attorney stated that she cannot be compelled to testify, as any statements could potentially incriminate her or her teenage son in the ongoing criminal investigation.
An FBI spokesperson said that any charges would be brought by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, should they arise. The development suggests a potentially serious escalation in the investigation.
Investigators are meticulously reviewing the ship’s security records, including surveillance footage and access logs, to establish the movements of individuals leading up to Kepner’s death.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday in Kepner’s honor. Her family has requested that attendees wear colorful clothing instead of traditional mourning attire, celebrating the life of their “bright and beautiful” daughter.
Kepner was described in her obituary as a cheerful, outgoing, and responsible young woman who always remained true to herself. She was a student at Temple Christian School in Titusville, Florida, located 64 kilometers east of Orlando, and planned to graduate in 2026. She aspired to be a cheerleader at the University of Georgia and cherished her siblings.
The Carnival Horizon, which can accommodate nearly 4,000 passengers, completed its Caribbean itinerary and returned to PortMiami on November 8th as scheduled. Carnival Cruise Line stated that it is fully cooperating with the FBI’s investigation.
Agencia AP
