Miami, Florida – Federal authorities have revealed new details about the tragic death of 18-year-old Florida cheerleader Anna Kepner, whose body was found on the Carnival Horizon cruise ship earlier this month. The circumstances surrounding his demise have raised many questions, with initial assessments indicating that he may have died from asphyxiation caused by strangulation known as a “bar hold”.
What happened: A mysterious death on the carnival horizon
Anna Kepner was found lifeless in her cabin on November 8, 2025, when a cabin steward discovered her body partially hidden under a bed and covered with a blanket, with a life jacket still on her body. She was on a six-day Caribbean cruise with her father, Christopher Kepner, her stepmother, Shontell Hudson, and other relatives.
The 18-year-old girl had returned to her cabin after dinner on November 6 and said she was feeling ill. Surveillance footage later confirmed that Anna did not leave the cabin after that point. His sudden disappearance from the ship’s scheduled activities led to a welfare check, which ultimately led to his tragic death. Authorities are focusing their investigation on the events inside the cabin where Anna spent her final moments.
Cause of death: strangulation, strangulation related
Initial reports from federal officials indicate that Anna’s cause of death was asphyxiation caused by a “bar hold” – a chokehold in which pressure is applied to the neck with a person’s hand. Two separate injuries observed on Anna’s neck are consistent with this type of injury. However, officials have not ruled out other possibilities as the investigation is still ongoing. Toxicology reports showed no signs of drugs, alcohol or sexual assault.
The final autopsy report from the Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner is still awaited to provide more conclusive evidence.
A troubled family dynamics and allegations
As investigators work to piece together the events surrounding Anna’s death, several disturbing allegations have emerged. Anna’s ex-boyfriend, Joshua Tew, claimed that Anna’s 16-year-old half-brother, Timothy Hudson, displayed “obsessive and inappropriate” behavior towards her. Tew said she saw Hudson enter Anna’s room during a FaceTime call and allegedly placed himself on top of her while she was sleeping. Anna reportedly felt uncomfortable around her stepbrother, and suspected that he often carried a knife.
However, these allegations have not been confirmed by law enforcement, and investigators have not yet commented on them publicly. Family feuds have also surfaced, with Anna’s stepmother hinting at a possible criminal case involving one of the underage children, and relatives suggesting significant discord within the family.
Anna’s biological mother, Heather Wright, shared her grief upon finding information about her daughter’s death online, as she was unable to contact any family members for details.
Investigation: What we know so far
After Anna’s body was discovered, authorities compiled a timeline of events. After returning to her cabin on November 6, Anna briefly visited her two brothers. One of them stepped out for a moment to take photographs, but came back to find that Anna was no longer in the room. The family soon reported her missing, and after a welfare check her remains were found.
Since the incident occurred in international waters, the FBI has taken over the investigation, as the Carnival Horizon is flagged by the United States. The FBI’s role in the investigation is crucial to uncovering what happened during Anna’s final moments on the cruise ship.
The community mourns: a bright future lost
As the investigation progresses, Anna’s friends, fellow students, and community members grapple with the sudden death of a talented young woman. Anna, known for her cheerleading and involvement in school and church activities, had a bright future ahead of her. His death has left a deep void in the lives of those who knew him.
The grief and confusion surrounding Anna’s death has sparked a desire for answers. Family and friends continue to seek clarity and justice as they await further developments from the investigation.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
