Stepbrother Faces Murder Charges in Cruise Ship Death of Florida Teen
The family of Anna Kepner, an 18-year-old Florida cheerleader, has confirmed that her 16-year-old stepbrother has been charged with her murder. The tragic incident occurred aboard the Carnival Horizon cruise ship during a family vacation in November 2025.
Discovery of the Body
Anna Kepner was found deceased under a bed in her cabin on November 7, 2025, as the cruise ship returned to Miami following a week-long Caribbean voyage. According to court documents obtained by CBS News, her body was discovered wrapped in a blanket and concealed beneath life vests.
The medical examination revealed that Anna died from asphyxiation caused by a bar hold, with her death officially ruled a homicide. Her younger biological brother reportedly heard disturbing noises from the cabin Anna shared with her stepbrother, including yelling and objects being thrown.
Family Statement and Legal Proceedings
In a statement released through their attorneys, Anna's parents Shauntel and Chris Kepner expressed their profound grief and frustration with the legal process. "At this time, it is deeply painful and disturbing to our family that the person responsible is able to walk freely," the statement read. "This reality adds to our grief and outrage."
The case is being tried in federal court due to the location of the crime on open waters. While the FBI has not formally named the stepbrother as a suspect, court documents indicate there is an ongoing sealed case against the minor.
Background and Family Dynamics
Anna Kepner was a high school senior who planned to join the military upon graduation in spring 2026. Her ex-boyfriend Joshua Tew told Inside Edition that the younger brother heard the stepbrother "yelling at her in a harmful way" shortly before her death.
In related family court proceedings, Thomas Hudson, the father of the accused stepbrother, has filed an emergency petition for custody of his nine-year-old daughter who currently lives with Shauntel and Chris Kepner. The petition cites "a significant and unanticipated change in circumstances" following the murder charges.
The Kepner family continues to mourn their loss while navigating the complex legal proceedings surrounding this tragic case that has drawn national attention to cruise ship safety and family violence.
