A Florida teen tragically died on a Carnival cruise. New court filings reveal the FBI may investigate a family member. Full details, timeline, and updates on Anna Kepner’s case.
Florida Teen Dies on Carnival Cruise, Court Filing Points to Possible Family Charges
A shocking twist has emerged in the tragic death of Florida teen Anna Kepner aboard a Carnival cruise, raising questions about possible criminal involvement within her own family.
Eighteen-year-old Anna, a high school cheerleader from Florida, was found dead on November 7, 2025, aboard the Carnival Horizon as it sailed back to Miami. Now, court documents suggest the FBI may be investigating a family member in connection with her death.
Details from the Court Filing
According to reports from the Daily Mail, Anna’s body was discovered by a maid hidden under a pile of life jackets in her cabin.
A court motion filed by Anna’s stepmother, Shauntel Hudson, in Brevard County reveals that the FBI may consider pressing charges against one of Shauntel’s minor children. Shauntel requested a delay in custody proceedings due to the “extremely sensitive and severe circumstance.”
The filing states that Shauntel and her children were on the cruise with Anna and her father, Chris Kepner. The stepmother’s lawyers emphasized that any comments in family court could affect the ongoing criminal investigation.
Federal Investigation Underway
Federal agents are reviewing CCTV footage, electronic key card data, and Anna’s cellphone records. Carnival Cruise Line has confirmed full cooperation with the FBI.
Authorities are interviewing family members, crew, and passengers to uncover the truth. Anna’s father, Chris, has expressed frustration over the lack of communication from the FBI, stating, “I know as little as everybody else.”
The Day of the Tragedy
Anna reportedly was unwell the night before her death and returned to her cabin early. When she did not appear for breakfast the following morning, family members began searching for her.
The Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner confirmed Anna was pronounced dead at 11:17 a.m., though the cause of death has not been publicly released.
Remembering Anna Kepner
Family members describe Anna as a bright, bubbly, and kind student with a passion for public service. She had recently taken steps toward a military career and was known for her volunteer work in her local community.
Anna loved gymnastics, cheerleading, and the water, earning both a boater’s license and scuba certification. Affectionately called “Anna Banana” by her family, she left behind a legacy of joy, ambition, and generosity.
Family Retreats from Public Life
As rumors and speculation circulate online, Chris Kepner and the family have withdrawn from social media and public appearances.
“I’ve had to shut the world out,” Chris shared. “We’ve had to stop doing anything related to the internet.”
The Carnival cruise, intended as a family getaway, has become a heartbreaking and mysterious tragedy, with the investigation ongoing and many questions still unanswered.
Stay updated on Anna Kepner’s story and the ongoing FBI investigation as authorities continue their search for answers.