Miami, Florida: Federal authorities have revealed new information about the tragic death of 18-year-old Florida cheerleader Anna Kepner, whose body was discovered aboard the Carnival Horizon earlier this month. The unusual circumstances and preliminary forensic findings have raised many questions about what truly happened during the cruise.
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What Happened on the Carnival Horizon?
On November 8, 2025, a cabin steward found Anna’s body partially hidden under her bed, covered with a blanket, and still wearing a life jacket. She was on a six-day Caribbean cruise with her father Christopher Kepner, her stepmother Shontell Hudson, and other relatives.
After dinner on November 6, Anna returned to her cabin and said she was feeling unwell. Surveillance footage confirms she did not leave the cabin afterward. When she failed to appear for the ship’s scheduled activities, a welfare check was carried out, leading to her tragic death. Authorities are now focused on what may have occurred inside the cabin during her final hours.
Preliminary Cause of Death: Possible Strangulation
Early reports from federal officials suggest Anna may have died from asphyxiation caused by a “bar hold,” a chokehold where pressure is applied to the neck using a hand or forearm. Two distinct injuries on her neck are consistent with this type of strangulation. Toxicology results show no signs of drugs or alcohol, and no evidence of sexual assault has been found. Other possible causes have not yet been ruled out. The Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner’s final autopsy report is still pending.
Allegations and Troubled Family Dynamics
Disturbing allegations have emerged in parallel with the investigation. Anna’s ex-boyfriend, Joshua Tew, claimed that her 16-year-old half-brother, Timothy Hudson, displayed obsessive and inappropriate behavior toward her. Tew said that during a FaceTime call, Timothy climbed into Anna’s bed while she was sleeping, making her uncomfortable. According to Tew, Anna also believed that Timothy often carried a knife.
These claims have not been confirmed by law enforcement, and investigators have not publicly addressed them. Family tensions are also coming to light. Anna’s stepmother has suggested in legal documents that one of her underage children may face criminal charges. Meanwhile, Anna’s biological mother, Heather Wright, expressed her grief after learning about her daughter’s death online because she could not reach other family members for information.
Investigation Update: Key Timeline
Authorities believe the following sequence of events may be relevant:
- On November 6, Anna returned to her cabin, saying she was not well.
- She briefly visited her two brothers.
- One brother left to take photos, and when he returned, Anna was gone.
- Her family reported her missing, triggering a welfare check.
- Anna’s body was found soon afterward.
Because her death occurred in international waters, the FBI is leading the investigation. The ship, Carnival Horizon, is under U.S. jurisdiction, making the federal investigation vital to uncovering what happened on board.
A Community Mourns: Remembering Anna
Anna’s death has sent shockwaves through her community in Florida. She was known for her cheerleading, her commitment to school activities, and her involvement in church. Friends, classmates, and community members describe her as bright, driven, and caring. Her sudden loss has left many people deeply saddened and searching for answers. There is growing demand for transparency and justice as the investigation continues.
Conclusion: Demanding Answers for a Tragic Loss
The tragic death of Anna Kepner remains surrounded by unanswered questions. With preliminary evidence suggesting possible strangulation and family allegations swirling, the need for clarity and truth has never been more urgent. As authorities continue their work, Anna’s loved ones and the wider community hold on to hope that justice will be served.
This story may be updated as more information becomes available.