New court filings suggest that a minor, possibly Anna Kepner’s stepbrother, may face criminal charges in connection with the 18-year-old cheerleader’s death aboard the Carnival Horizon cruise ship earlier this month. Kepner was found dead on November 8 while the ship was en route back to Miami, sparking an ongoing FBI investigation.
The potential criminal case against the minor emerged in an unrelated family court filing made by Kepner’s stepmother, Shauntel Hudson, who is requesting a delay in a custody matter. According to the filing, Hudson’s minor child, who was aboard the cruise with her, Kepner’s father, and Kepner herself, could face prosecution. The court documents also note that Hudson cannot be compelled to testify due to the potential prejudice it could cause to her child in the ongoing criminal investigation.
SUPPORT THE FAMILY - GOD BLESS YOU
Details of the Incident Remain Scarce
Kepner, a promising high school senior and cheerleader, was found dead as the ship made its way back to Miami, having recently completed stops in Cozumel, Grand Cayman, and Jamaica. Despite passengers being asked to vacate their cabins earlier than usual when the ship docked, authorities have released few details about the circumstances surrounding her death.
The Miami-Dade Medical Examiner has yet to confirm the cause or manner of death. The FBI has jurisdiction over the investigation, as the cruise was traveling between international waters. While the Carnival Cruise Line has expressed its support for the family and cooperation with the investigation, no charges have been publicly announced.
A Life Cut Short
Anna Kepner, who was set to graduate in May and had plans to join the military, was remembered by friends and family for her dedication to gymnastics and cheerleading at Temple Christian School in Titusville. Her death has left those close to her devastated, with friends honoring her memory by placing flowers on her car, a tribute to a young life full of promise and ambition.
The investigation into her death continues, and more details are expected as the FBI works to uncover the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.