Investigators have revealed chilling new details in the case of 18-year-old Florida teen Anna Kepner, whose death aboard the Carnival Horizon earlier this month has sent shockwaves through her community. According to sources close to the probe, preliminary findings point to asphyxiation consistent with a “bar hold” — when a person’s arm is forcefully pressed across another’s neck.
According to those reports, the FBI identified two distinct bruises on the side of Anna’s neck that align with that very mechanism. Toxicology and forensic checks done so far reportedly show no signs of drugs, alcohol, or sexual assault, though the Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner’s office has yet to release a formal ruling on cause or manner of death.
Anna’s body was discovered on November 8 by a cabin steward. She was wrapped in a blanket, tucked under the bed, and partially covered with life vests. She had been cruising with her father Christopher, stepmother Shauntel Hudson, and her two younger stepbrothers.
According to multiple reports, Anna had told her family she felt sick the night prior and returned to her cabin alone. Surveillance footage later confirmed she never left that room again. Meanwhile, in separate court documents unrelated to the criminal investigation, her stepmother acknowledged that one of her children “may be facing criminal charges” in connection with Anna’s death.
Serious allegations have also surfaced against Anna’s 16-year-old stepbrother, identified in court filings only by his initials. In an interview, Anna’s ex-boyfriend Joshua Tew claimed he once saw that brother climb on top of her during a FaceTime call when she was asleep — a behavior he described as “obsessive and inappropriate.” The ex’s father added that Anna had previously expressed her discomfort around her stepbrother and believed he carried a knife regularly.
A former Miami-Dade detective turned private investigator has also raised questions about the life vests. He pointed out that the jackets weren’t found where they should have been stored, but rather were draped over her body — suggesting they might have been moved after her death. Authorities are reportedly testing the vests, the blanket, and anything else in the room for DNA and other forensic evidence.
The tension in Anna’s family has been palpable. Court filings from her stepmother ask for delays in a custody case, claiming her testimony could prejudice her or her son, who may become a target of criminal prosecution. Through it all, friends describe Anna as warm-hearted and full of joy — a straight-A student and varsity cheerleader with dreams of joining the U.S. Navy and becoming a K-9 police officer.
The FBI is leading the investigation, and though no arrest has been made, the stakes are high. As forensic teams await full autopsy and toxicology results, Anna’s loved ones are left searching for answers, mourning a bright young life cut tragically short.
