DOJO – New investigative details are emerging in the mysterious death of 18-year-old Florida cheerleader Anna Kepner, who was found dead aboard the Carnival Horizon cruise ship earlier this month. Federal documents and new reporting reveal that her 16-year-old stepbrother — who shared a cabin with her during the family vacation — is now being treated as a suspect in the FBI’s ongoing investigation.
What investigators discovered
According to a source briefed on the case, Kepner died from asphyxiation caused by an arm across her neck in a bar-hold position, and investigators also found two bruises on the side of her neck. Her body was discovered on Nov. 7 by a housekeeper, hidden beneath a cabin bed, wrapped in a blanket and covered with life vests.
So far, preliminary findings show no signs of sexual assault and no drugs or alcohol detected in her system. The FBI has not released official autopsy or toxicology results, and no charges have been filed.
Why the stepbrother is now a suspect
Court records in an unrelated custody dispute revealed that Kepner’s 16-year-old stepbrother is the focus of the federal investigation. During a virtual hearing, his parents acknowledged the FBI’s involvement after a judge referenced the teen being accused of involvement in the death of “the stepchild in the same room.”
Family members confirmed that Anna shared a stateroom with her stepbrother and another sibling during the cruise.
Concerns raised before the cruise
Kepner’s ex-boyfriend, Josh Tew, told Inside Edition that Anna had recently expressed feeling uncomfortable around her stepbrother. “She complained about him being uncomfortable. Or her being uncomfortable around him,” he said.
His uncle, Jim Tew, added, “There were signs before this. The truth needs to come out.”
A community in mourning
Hundreds gathered Thursday at the Grove Church in Titusville for a memorial service honoring Anna’s life. Friends and former classmates described her as joyful, intelligent, and “full of light,” with many expressing heartbreak that her life ended so suddenly.
“It was very loving and encouraging,” one classmate said. “You could definitely tell she left her mark.”
What’s next in the investigation
The FBI continues to lead the probe and has offered no further public detail. The Miami-Dade Medical Examiner’s Office also declined to comment.
Anna’s family and loved ones say they are desperate for answers — and justice.
“I’m praying that investigators build a solid case,” said Jim Tew. “Justice needs to be done for why she’s not with us today.”
The investigation remains active.
