The Federal Bureau of Investigation is actively investigating the death of an 18-year-old woman aboard a Carnival cruise ship earlier this month. Anna Kepner, from Titusville, Florida, was found deceased on the Carnival Horizon on November 8, with preliminary findings indicating she died from asphyxiation.
Sources familiar with the investigation report that Kepner's death was caused by a "bar hold," a type of chokehold involving an arm across the neck. The ongoing federal probe is also examining the potential involvement of a minor who was traveling with the family.
Key Takeaways
- Anna Kepner, 18, was found dead on the Carnival Horizon cruise ship on November 8.
- A preliminary investigation suggests the cause of death was asphyxiation from a chokehold.
- The FBI has taken over the investigation, which is standard for deaths in international waters involving U.S. citizens.
- A court filing in a separate family matter indicates one of Kepner's stepsiblings, a minor, may face criminal charges.
- Official autopsy and toxicology reports have not yet been completed.
The Federal Investigation Begins
The FBI has assumed jurisdiction over the case, a common procedure when a U.S. citizen dies under suspicious circumstances in international waters. The agency has remained tight-lipped, citing the active and sensitive nature of the investigation. Both the FBI and the Miami-Dade Medical Examiner's Office have declined to release official comments to the public.
Investigators are piecing together the events that transpired on the Carnival Horizon leading up to Kepner's death. The initial stages of the probe are focused on collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and establishing a clear timeline.
Details on the Cause of Death
Information from sources briefed on the investigation has provided a clearer, though disturbing, picture of the circumstances. The preliminary cause of death has been identified as asphyxiation resulting from a specific type of hold. Investigators also noted the presence of two bruises on the side of Kepner's neck, consistent with pressure being applied to the area.
Early information also suggests there were no immediate signs of sexual assault. Furthermore, initial tests did not appear to detect drugs or alcohol in her system. However, these findings are preliminary and await confirmation from comprehensive autopsy and toxicology reports, which can take several weeks to finalize.
Circumstances of Discovery
According to a security source familiar with the incident, Anna Kepner's body was discovered in a concealed location within a cabin. She was reportedly found under a bed, wrapped in a blanket, and further covered by life vests.
Legal Filings Point to Potential Suspect
A significant development in the case has emerged from an unrelated family court proceeding in Florida. A court filing connected to Kepner's stepmother, Shauntel Hudson, who was also on the cruise, has shed light on the direction of the investigation. Hudson requested a delay in a custody hearing, citing the federal investigation into Kepner's death.
The filing explicitly states that the FBI is conducting an investigation "arising out of the sudden death of 18 year old Anna Kepner." It further notes that one of Hudson's minor children may face criminal charges in connection with the incident.
The court filing noted the FBI's investigation and stated that one of the stepmother's minor children could potentially face criminal charges related to the death.
This revelation suggests that investigators may be focusing on individuals who were part of Kepner's traveling group. The family members on the cruise included Kepner's father and her stepmother, along with her stepsiblings.
Understanding Cruise Ship Investigations
When a serious crime or unexplained death occurs on a cruise ship at sea, jurisdiction can be complex. However, the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2010 gives the FBI primary authority to investigate serious crimes involving U.S. nationals, whether as victims or perpetrators, even in international waters. The investigation often begins as soon as the ship docks at its next U.S. port.
Awaiting Official Confirmation
While details have begun to surface through sources and court documents, official confirmation remains pending. The full autopsy and toxicology results are critical components that will provide definitive answers about the cause and manner of death. These reports will be crucial for the FBI as it determines whether to pursue formal charges.
The case has drawn attention to the issue of safety and security aboard cruise ships, which carry millions of passengers each year. For now, the family of Anna Kepner and the public await further information from federal authorities as they continue their work.
The investigation is ongoing, and no charges have been filed at this time. Officials have not released the name or age of the minor mentioned in the court filing.
