An 18-year-old Florida cheerleader, Anna Kepner, was found deceased on a Carnival Horizon cruise ship earlier this month. The discovery was made by a maid in the teen's cabin. Authorities have not yet released the cause of death as the FBI continues its investigation into the incident.
Key Takeaways
- Anna Kepner, 18, was found deceased on a Carnival Horizon cruise ship on November 7.
- A maid discovered her body wrapped in a blanket, covered in life jackets, and placed under a bed.
- The ship returned to the Port of Miami after the discovery.
- The FBI is currently investigating the death due to its occurrence in international waters.
- The family awaits answers regarding the cause of death, which remains undisclosed.
Discovery Aboard the Carnival Horizon
The incident occurred on November 7 during a six-day Carnival Horizon cruise traveling from Miami to the Caribbean. Anna Kepner, from Titusville, Florida, had reportedly felt unwell the night before her body was found. She returned to her cabin early after dinner.
The following morning, when her family gathered for breakfast, Ms. Kepner was not present. Her family began searching the large vessel, which accommodates nearly 4,000 guests and 1,450 crew members. The search concluded around 11 a.m. when a maid discovered her body.
Incident Details
- Date of Discovery: November 7
- Ship: Carnival Horizon
- Route: Miami to the Caribbean
- Time of Death (listed): 11:17 a.m.
Unusual Circumstances of Discovery
Reports indicate that Ms. Kepner's body was found in a concerning state. She was reportedly wrapped in a blanket, covered with life jackets, and located underneath a bed in her cabin. This discovery prompted the cruise ship to change its course and return immediately to the Port of Miami.
The Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner's office listed the time of death as 11:17 a.m. However, the specific cause of death has not been released. An autopsy was performed on November 11, but its results are still pending.
"I have no idea what is going on right now. We are just trying to sit still and wait for answers," said Christopher Kepner, Anna's father, earlier this month.
FBI Leads Investigation
Due to the circumstances surrounding the death and its occurrence in international waters, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has taken over the investigation. This is standard procedure for deaths that happen outside national jurisdiction.
The FBI has not yet shared details of their findings with the family or the public. Carnival Cruise Line has issued a statement confirming their cooperation with the FBI and their focus on supporting the family of their deceased guest.
International Waters Jurisdiction
When incidents, particularly deaths, occur on cruise ships in international waters, the FBI often becomes the lead investigative agency. This is because no single country's law enforcement automatically has jurisdiction, requiring federal intervention to ensure a thorough inquiry.
Remembering Anna Kepner
Anna Kepner, affectionately known as "Anna Banana" by her loved ones, was an active and beloved member of her community. She was a varsity cheerleader and gymnast, set to graduate from Temple Christian School in Titusville in May.
Her family described her as "bubbly" and full of life. She had plans to join the military after graduation in 2026, with aspirations of becoming a K9 police officer. Ms. Kepner also had a passion for sports, particularly the University of Georgia football team, and dreamed of becoming a cheerleader for the Bulldogs.
Tributes from Family and School
- Her father, Christopher Kepner, stated, "She was full of life and loved by everyone in this community. She was special to so many people. The whole family is lost for words. We miss her and love her more than anything."
- A teacher from Temple Christian School, Mr. Brunner, shared a heartfelt tribute. He noted how Ms. Kepner "brought warmth and energy into the classroom."
- Mr. Brunner added, "Your curiosity, your gentle spirit, and the way you cared for those around you made a lasting impression on me and on everyone who knew you." He also mentioned missing their "fun 15-minute conversation" when she would poke her head into his office.
The community continues to mourn the loss of a young woman with a bright future. The family and friends of Anna Kepner are awaiting further information from the ongoing investigation.
Ongoing Investigation
The lack of immediate answers has left the family in a state of uncertainty. They are waiting for the results of the autopsy and the findings of the FBI's investigation. The circumstances surrounding Ms. Kepner's death remain unclear, contributing to the family's distress.
The investigation is expected to be thorough, given the involvement of federal authorities and the unusual nature of the discovery. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available from the official sources.
