Carnival Cruise Death: Bar Hold Choke Revealed as Cause in Anna Kepner Case

An 18-year-old’s death on a Carnival cruise ship has taken a disturbing turn. Anna Kepner was found dead aboard the Carnival Horizon earlier this month. New investigative details point to a violent cause. Authorities now believe she died from asphyxiation.

The cause was a bar hold choke, according to ABC News. This revelation shifts the investigation significantly. The case is now being treated with heightened severity by the FBI.

Shocking Details Emerge in Cruise Ship Death

Anna Kepner was discovered on November 7. A maid found her body inside a cabin. She was under a bed, wrapped in a blanket.

Her body was also covered by life vests. Investigators found two distinct bruises on the side of her neck. These marks are consistent with the application of a chokehold.

According to ABC News, preliminary findings rule out sexual assault. No drugs or alcohol were detected in her system either. The official autopsy and toxicology reports are still pending completion. These final documents will provide conclusive evidence.

Family Dynamics and a Developing Investigation

The Kepner family was on a six-day Caribbean vacation. The trip included Anna’s father, stepmother, and her stepsiblings. The family dynamic is now a focus of the inquiry.

A family court filing has revealed a critical development. One of Anna’s minor stepsiblings may face criminal charges. This was cited as the reason for a delay in a separate custody hearing for the stepmother, Shauntel Hudson.

The FBI is leading the active investigation. The agency is looking into all circumstances surrounding the sudden death. A source close to the family described one stepsibling as being “infatuated” with Anna.

What is a Bar Hold Choke?

A bar hold choke is a potentially lethal maneuver. It involves placing an arm across a person’s neck from behind. This applies pressure to the carotid arteries, restricting blood flow to the brain.

It is a type of rear naked choke. The move can cause unconsciousness within seconds. If maintained, it leads to fatal asphyxiation.

This technique is often discussed in martial arts and combat sports. Its use in this context suggests a deliberate application of force. The investigation will determine the exact circumstances of its use.

The death of Anna Kepner has unveiled a tragic and complex case. The focus on a bar hold choke indicates a violent end to a young life. The ongoing FBI investigation continues to seek answers for her family.

Info at your fingertips

Who was Anna Kepner?

Anna Kepner was an 18-year-old cheerleader from Titusville, Florida. She was on a family cruise aboard the Carnival Horizon when she died. Her death is now the subject of an FBI investigation.

What ship did the incident occur on?

The incident occurred on the Carnival Horizon cruise ship. The vessel was on a six-day Caribbean itinerary. The ship is operated by Carnival Cruise Line.

What is the current status of the investigation?

The FBI is actively investigating the death as a crime. A minor stepsibling is reportedly a person of interest. Official autopsy results are still pending.

Has anyone been charged in the case?

As of now, no public charges have been filed. Court documents indicate a minor may face potential charges. The investigation remains ongoing.

How did the family react to the findings?

The family has requested privacy during the investigation. They are cooperating with federal authorities. The recent findings have undoubtedly compounded their grief.