FBI investigators are zeroing in on a minor stepsibling as a potential suspect in the shocking death of 18-year-old Florida cheerleader Anna Kepner, whose body was discovered hidden under a bed aboard a Carnival cruise ship during what should have been a family vacation.
Story Highlights
- Criminal charges may be filed against one of Kepner’s minor stepsiblings according to FBI investigators.
- 18-year-old Florida cheerleader found dead under bed in cruise ship stateroom during Caribbean family vacation.
- FBI reviewing surveillance footage and electronic swipe card data to determine who entered victim’s cabin.
- Emergency court filing in divorce case reveals sensitive nature of ongoing federal investigation.
Federal Investigation Targets Family Member
The FBI investigation into Anna Kepner’s death has taken a disturbing turn with investigators focusing on one of her minor stepsiblings as a potential criminal suspect.
Court documents filed in a divorce proceeding involving Kepner’s stepmother, Shauntel Hudson, reveal that federal agents have informed the family that “a criminal case may be initiated” against one of Hudson’s children.
The emergency motion filed by Hudson’s attorneys seeks to delay court proceedings due to what they describe as an “extremely sensitive and severe circumstance.”
Stepsibling of Florida cheerleader found dead on Carnival cruise being eyed by feds: court docs https://t.co/2sRTzAGKBN pic.twitter.com/DYTtcmNCyK
— New York Post (@nypost) November 19, 2025
Tragic Discovery During Caribbean Vacation
Kepner was traveling with her father, stepmother, and three stepsiblings aboard the Carnival Horizon during a Caribbean cruise when tragedy struck. The 18-year-old high school cheerleader had complained of feeling unwell the night before her death and retired to her stateroom.
When she failed to appear for breakfast the following morning, family members launched a frantic search. A housekeeper later discovered Kepner’s body concealed under the bed in her cabin as the ship was returning to Miami, docking on November 8, 2025.
Comprehensive Federal Investigation Underway
FBI agents are conducting a thorough investigation using multiple forensic approaches to determine the circumstances surrounding Kepner’s death. Investigators are analyzing surveillance video from the cruise ship and examining electronic swipe card data that could reveal who accessed the victim’s stateroom.
The federal investigation also includes examination of Kepner’s cellphone records and extensive interviews with passengers, crew members, and family members aboard the vessel.
Jurisdiction and Ongoing Safety Measures
The FBI has taken jurisdiction over the case because Kepner was a U.S. citizen and her death occurred in international waters. The Miami FBI office is coordinating closely with Carnival security personnel throughout the investigation.
Carnival Cruise Line has issued statements confirming their full cooperation with federal authorities and has assured passengers that the FBI has determined there is no ongoing safety threat aboard the ship during its current voyage.
