Family Mourns Florida Cheerleader Found Dead Aboard Carnival Cruise; 16-Year-Old Stepsibling Named a Suspect

The family of 18-year-old Anna Kepner issued an emotional online tribute after the Florida high school senior was found dead aboard the Carnival Horizon while the ship was in the Caribbean on Nov. 8.

Family tribute

In an online obituary, Anna was remembered as "incredibly determined and hardworking," "reliable, responsible, and always willing to help." Her family described her as "pure energy: bubbly, funny, outgoing, and completely herself," saying she "filled the world with laughter, love, and light."

How she was found

Crew members discovered Anna's body in a stateroom during the cruise. She was located beneath a bed and was reported to have been wrapped in a blanket and covered with life vests. Local authorities and ship officials are involved in the ongoing inquiry.

Investigation status

A custody filing by the teen's stepmother identified Anna's 16-year-old stepbrother as "a suspect" in the death and indicates the minor is currently staying with a relative. Court documents also note that officials informed the family a criminal case "may be initiated against one of the minor children." No formal criminal charges have been publicly announced.

The Miami-Dade County medical examiner's office has said the cause and manner of death remain under investigation and have not yet been determined.

Background

Anna attended several local schools, including Titusville High School where she cheered on the varsity team, later Astronaut High School, and most recently Temple Christian School, where she expected to graduate with the Class of 2026. Her family said she planned to join the U.S. Navy after graduation and hoped to become a K9 police officer.

The family has asked for privacy as investigators continue to review the circumstances surrounding her death.