TITUSVILLE, Fla. — Eighteen-year-old Anna Kepner, a high school senior and varsity cheerleader, was found dead in her cabin aboard the Carnival Horizon during a family Caribbean cruise. More than two weeks after the ship returned to PortMiami, authorities have not released an official cause of death and investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding her final hours.
Timeline of events
Oct. 26–30 — Social posts
In the days before the cruise, Anna posted on TikTok about heartbreak and resilience. One longer post described continuing to "have a smile on my face" despite mistreatment, and a short Oct. 30 message read, "You deserve to be happy, but if it ain't with me then nvm." Her teen ex-boyfriend later said he had been expected to join the voyage but that they had broken up before boarding.
Nov. 2 — Boarding
Anna boarded the Carnival Horizon in Miami with family members, including her father, her stepmother Shauntel Kepner, and a 16-year-old stepbrother, for a six-night Caribbean cruise.
Night of Nov. 6 — Felt unwell
Passengers reported Anna left dinner early on the night of Nov. 6 because she was not feeling well and returned to her cabin.
Nov. 7 — Death recorded and discovery
The Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner's Office listed Anna's time of death as 11:17 a.m. on Nov. 7. A Carnival housekeeping employee later discovered her in the stateroom; family members say she was found beneath the bed, wrapped in a blanket and covered with life jackets.
Nov. 8 — Ship returns to PortMiami; investigation begins
The Carnival Horizon returned to PortMiami the next day. Investigators, including federal agents, boarded the ship to examine the scene and interview passengers. Anna’s remains were transferred to a medical examiner’s office for further testing. No arrests were announced at that time.
Nov. 17 — Court filings and custody dispute
Court documents filed in a custody dispute between Anna’s stepmother and her ex-husband included allegations identifying the 16-year-old stepbrother as a possible suspect. Attorneys argued over whether testimony could be compelled, with claims that forcing certain testimony might risk self-incrimination for family members.
Nov. 20 — Memorial service
A memorial was held in Titusville, Florida, where hundreds attended to honor Anna’s life. Family and friends shared photos and memories; an online obituary noted she loved being on the water, had earned a boating license, and had hoped to join the U.S. Navy and eventually become a K-9 police officer.
Nov. 21 — Preliminary findings reported
Preliminary reporting indicated investigators observed bruising and signs that could be consistent with asphyxiation in a chokehold. The medical examiner has not issued an official cause or manner of death; toxicology and additional laboratory testing remain pending.
What remains unknown
Authorities have questioned family members, including the 16-year-old stepbrother, but no criminal charges have been filed. Maritime death investigations can be complex because of jurisdictional issues and the need for thorough forensic testing. Officials say they will await the results of toxicology and other analyses before drawing final conclusions.
Note: This account compiles verified details released by investigators and family statements; unconfirmed reports have been avoided. The investigation is ongoing.
