Federal investigators have revealed new details in the mysterious death of 18-year-old Anna Kepner, a Florida cheerleader whose body was discovered aboard the Carnival Horizon earlier this month. Preliminary findings indicate that Anna’s death resulted from asphyxiation consistent with a “bar hold” choke, a form of strangulation caused by another person’s arm applying pressure to the neck. Sources close to the investigation reported that two distinct bruises were found on Anna’s neck, which align with this mechanism. While toxicology results show no signs of drugs, alcohol, or sexual assault, officials await the final autopsy report from the Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner.
Anna was found on November 8 by a cabin steward, wrapped in a blanket and partially hidden beneath a bed with life vests covering part of her body. She had been on a six-day Caribbean cruise with her father, Christopher Kepner, her stepmother, Shauntel Hudson, and other family members. The teen had returned to her cabin after dinner on November 6, telling relatives she felt unwell. Surveillance footage later confirmed that Anna never exited the cabin again, prompting authorities to focus their investigation on the events within the room.
SUPPORT THE FAMILY - GOD BLESS YOU
As the investigation unfolds, allegations have surfaced involving Anna’s 16-year-old stepbrother, Timothy Hudson. According to Anna’s former boyfriend, Joshua Tew, Hudson exhibited “obsessive and inappropriate” behavior toward Anna, even claiming to have witnessed Hudson entering her room during a FaceTime call and allegedly climbing on top of her while she slept. Tew also stated that Anna felt uncomfortable around Hudson and believed he often carried a knife. However, these claims have not been verified by law enforcement.
Tension among the family has also surfaced in legal filings, with Anna’s stepmother hinting at a potential criminal case involving one of the minor children. During Anna’s funeral in Orlando, relatives described significant family strain, with some being asked not to attend the service. Anna’s biological mother, Heather Wright, tearfully shared that she had learned of her daughter’s death online after being unable to reach any family members.
Investigators have outlined the timeline leading up to Anna’s discovery, noting that after returning to her cabin alone on November 6, Anna was joined by her two brothers, one of whom briefly left to take photos. He returned, believing Anna had gone elsewhere. By the next morning, she was reported missing, and her body was discovered during a welfare check. No arrests have been made, and the FBI is leading the investigation due to the incident occurring in international waters aboard a U.S.-flagged vessel.
As the investigation continues, Anna’s friends, classmates, and community members, who knew her through cheerleading, school, and church, are left mourning her tragic loss while awaiting answers regarding the final moments of her life.