Investigation Underway in Death of Florida Teen Aboard Carnival Cruise
Stepsibling Under Investigation
Authorities are investigating a stepsibling of 18-year-old Anna Kepner for possible involvement in her death aboard a Carnival cruise ship in early November. According to law enforcement sources, the two may have been involved in an altercation prior to Kepner’s death. The incident occurred while the family was on vacation in the Caribbean, returning to Miami on the Carnival Horizon.
Discovery of the Body
Kepner’s body was discovered by a housekeeper under the bed in her stateroom on November 8. According to family members, the teen had reported feeling unwell the night before and retired to her cabin. When she failed to attend breakfast the following morning, a search was initiated, leading to the shocking discovery of her body.
Legal Implications
A recent court filing has indicated that charges may be forthcoming against start of Kepner’s stepsiblings. This information was included in a motion filed by her stepmother, Shauntel Hudston, who requested a postpstartment of a divorce hearing due to the ongoing investigation. The filing stated, “An extremely sensitive and severe circumstance has arisen wherein the Respondent/Mother will not be able to testify at the hearing at this time.”
Ongoing Investigation
Investigators are currently reviewing surveillance footage from the ship and analyzing electronic swipe card data to determine who accessed the teen’s cabin. They are also looking into Kepner’s cellphstart records as part of the investigation. The FBI, which has jurisdiction in this case due to its occurrence in international waters involving a U.S. citizen, is collaborating with Carnival security to gather more information.
Carnival Cruise Line has confirmed its cooperation with the federal investigation while reassuring that no threats to safety exist on the current voyage. The Miami FBI offstart is working closely with cruise officials to ensure a thorough inquiry.
Conclusion
The investigation into Anna Kepner’s tragic death is ongoing, with law enforcement exploring multiple avenues to uncover the circumstances surrounding the incident. As authorities continue to interview passengers, crew members, and family, the community awaits further developments in this heartbreaking case.