How Did Anna Kepner Die? Cause of Death, Cruise Footage Review & Investigation Update”
The tragic death of 18-year-old Anna Kepner, a Florida teenager who died aboard the Carnival Horizon cruise ship, continues to spark national attention as new investigative details emerge. The FBI, Miami-Dade authorities, and federal investigators are actively piecing together what happened to the bright, straight-A student whose life was cut short on November 8, 2025.
Latest Update (November 2025): Teen Found Dead Under Bed, Stepfamily Under FBI Investigation
A source close to the investigation told ABC News that Anna Kepner was discovered under a bed, wrapped in a blanket and covered with life vests inside her cabin aboard the Carnival Horizon. Her shocking death occurred early on November 8, 2025, during a family cruise.
The Miami-Dade Medical Examiner has not yet released an official cause of death.
Key Developments:
- Anna was found hidden under a bed in her cabin.
- Investigators are exploring whether an altercation with her stepbrother occurred prior to her death.
- Other possibilities being examined include:
- a medical emergency
- an accidental overdose
- other criminal or accidental causes
- The FBI is reviewing:
- ship’s security footage
- door-entry card logs
- passenger movement records
- A family court filing revealed that a minor child - Anna’s stepsibling - may face criminal charges.
- Anna’s stepmother, Shauntel Hudson, requested a custody-hearing delay due to the ongoing federal investigation.
The FBI has declined to comment publicly.
What Happened to Anna Kepner? Full Breakdown of the Cruise Ship Incident
The Discovery
Anna was found dead inside the cabin she shared with her family. According to the security source:
- She was wrapped tightly in a blanket
- Placed under a bed
- Covered with life vests, as if intentionally hidden
This raised immediate red flags for investigators.
Persons of Interest
Among those being closely reviewed is her teenage stepbrother, who was also onboard.
A family court document states:
“A criminal case may be initiated against one of the minor children… related to the sudden death of 18-year-old Anna Kepner.”
Because of this ongoing case, Anna’s stepmother cannot testify in her own custody hearing.
Who Was Anna Kepner? (Biography)
• Name: Anna Marie Kepner
• Age: 18
• Hometown: Titusville, Florida
• Known For:
- Straight-A high school student
- Cheerleader
- Described as “happy, bubbly, and full of life”
- Planning for college and a bright future
• Family:
- Father
- Stepmother, Shauntel Hudson
- Stepbrother and other siblings
• Date of Death: November 8, 2025
• Location: Carnival Horizon cruise ship, en route from Florida
Anna’s family remembers her as a motivated, joyful, and ambitious young woman whose life ended far too soon.
Carnival Cruise Line’s Statement
Carnival Cruise Line released a short statement saying:
“Our focus is on supporting the family of our guest and cooperating fully with the FBI.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How did Anna Kepner die on the Carnival Horizon?
- Her official cause of death has not yet been released. She was found under a bed, wrapped in a blanket and covered with life vests.
2. Is anyone under investigation for her death?
Yes. A minor child, believed to be her stepbrother, is being reviewed by investigators. No charges have been officially filed yet.
3. Why is the FBI involved in this case?
- Cruise ship deaths fall under federal jurisdiction. Because Anna died in international waters aboard a U.S.-linked vessel, the FBI automatically handles the case.
4. Did Carnival Cruise Line release details about the incident?
- No. Carnival declined to give specifics but confirmed they are cooperating with authorities.
5. Was foul play suspected?
- Investigators are considering:
- possible altercation
- accidental medical emergency
- overdose
- and other criminal or accidental scenarios
6. Where were her parents when she died?
- Anna was on the cruise with:
- her father
- her stepmother
- her stepbrother
- other siblings
They have not released additional statements to the public.
7. When will the autopsy results be available?
- Miami-Dade medical reports typically take several weeks. The case is ongoing.
The heartbreaking death of Anna Kepner has launched a complex federal investigation involving the FBI, family courts, and Carnival Cruise Line. As authorities continue reviewing footage, passenger logs and forensic evidence, the public awaits clarity on what happened aboard the Carnival Horizon.
This article will be updated as more official information becomes available.
About the Author
Praise Graciebby is a content creator on Essie Book Blog, where she writes celebrity biographies, sports updates, gossip, and trending news. With a passion for entertainment and lifestyle journalism, Praise provides readers with simple, accurate, and up-to-date profiles of public figures worldwide.

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