Cruise Ship Mystery: Teen’s Death Sparks FBI Probe as Stepbrother Faces Potential Charges

An 18-year-old Florida girl died mysteriously aboard a Carnival cruise ship. Her body was found under a bed. Now, her stepbrother may face criminal charges.

ABC News reported this development, citing a court filing. The case has taken a dramatic turn after shocking online claims from a man identifying as the teen’s uncle.

Investigation Takes a New Turn

The teen was Anna Kepner from Titusville. She was on the Carnival Horizon ship in November. The ship was sailing from Florida to the Caribbean.

Her body was discovered by a crew member on November 8. The Miami-Dade medical examiner said she died the day before. Few official details about her cause of death have been released.

The situation changed this week. A man named Martin Donohue posted online claims. He said he was Anna’s uncle. Donohue alleged her stepbrother was responsible.

He claimed the stepbrother hid the body. The post has since been deleted. These claims are not yet verified by authorities.

Legal Motion Hints at Serious Allegations

The ABC News report points to a significant legal filing. Anna’s stepmother, Shauntel Hudson, asked to delay a court hearing. Her motion cites an ongoing criminal investigation.

The filing states one of her minor children is being investigated. It says “a criminal case may be initiated.” This child is widely understood to be Anna’s stepbrother.

The motion argues testimony could be prejudicial. It says the stepmother cannot be compelled to speak. The FBI is leading the overall investigation.

Anna’s father had previously expressed frustration. Christian Kepner said the FBI kept him in the dark. The family is seeking answers about the tragic loss.

Anna was a senior at Temple Christian School. She was a gymnast and cheerleader. Her family said she planned to join the army after graduation.

The potential charges against a family member mark a painful new chapter. The FBI continues its work on this cruise ship mystery. The quest for clarity in Anna Kepner’s death continues.

Thought you’d like to know

Who was Anna Kepner?

Anna Kepner was an 18-year-old from Titusville, Florida. She was a senior and a student athlete. Her family said she wanted to join the army.

What ship did the incident occur on?

The incident occurred on the Carnival Cruise Line’s Horizon ship. The ship was sailing from Florida to the Caribbean. The cruise line is cooperating with the investigation.

What has the FBI said about the case?

The FBI has confirmed it is investigating the death. Specific details remain undisclosed. The agency typically does not comment on active investigations.

Has the stepbrother been charged?

No formal charges have been announced publicly. A court filing indicates charges may be forthcoming. The individual involved is a minor.

How has the family reacted?

Anna’s father previously said he lacked information from investigators. The stepmother’s legal motion suggests a complex family situation. The case has drawn significant public attention.