Teen Anna Kepner died from asphyxiation aboard a Carnival cruise ship, according to reports.

A tragic incident aboard a Carnival cruise has left the family and community of 18-year-old Anna Kepner reeling. The cheerleader from Florida was discovered deceased on November 8, 2025, hidden under a bed in her stateroom on the Carnival Horizon. Recent reports indicate that her death appears to have been caused by asphyxiation, with preliminary findings suggesting that she may have been choked. Investigators noted bruising on the side of her neck, hinting at a violent confrontation prior to her death.

In the wake of this shocking discovery, federal authorities have initiated an investigation, focusing particularly on Kepner’s younger stepbrother. According to sources familiar with the case, there is no indication of sexual assault, and toxicology screenings have suggested that Kepner did not have drugs or alcohol in her system at the time of her death. However, official conclusions regarding the cause of death are pending further autopsy and toxicology results.

The circumstances surrounding the incident have raised multiple questions. Kepner was found under a blanket and life vests, leading to further speculation about how the situation unfolded. Reports reveal that her stepbrother, who is 16 years old, has been referred to as a suspect in custody filings made by his father, Thomas Hudson. This designation underscores the intense scrutiny surrounding the family and their dynamics, particularly in light of the ongoing investigation.

Adding another layer of complexity, Kepner’s stepmother, Shauntel Hudson, has invoked her Fifth Amendment rights amid the custody proceedings, expressing concern that her testimony could negatively impact her or her son’s circumstances in connection with the investigation. This request for a postponement of the custody hearing reflects the fraught emotional landscape the family is navigating.

Reports also indicate that Shauntel’s attorney stated that the stepbrother was hospitalized shortly after the incident, countering claims that he had been drinking during the cruise. Shauntel has mentioned that her son has an upcoming appointment with a psychiatrist, indicating that the events have taken a psychological toll on the family.

As the investigation continues, the focus remains on understanding the events leading up to Kepner’s tragic death. This case has garnered significant media attention, reflecting a broader concern regarding safety on cruises and the potential implications for those involved. The community mourns the loss of a promising young life, while the investigation seeks to uncover the truth behind this heartbreaking event.

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