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Father Demands Justice: Anna Kepner’s Stepson 'Must Face Consequences' After Teen's Death Aboard Cruise Ship

Christopher KepnerAnna Kepner, was last seen at a family dinner aboard the Carnival Horizon on Nov. 6 and was found dead the next day. Her death certificate lists the cause as "mechanically asphyxiated by other person(s)," and the FBI is investigating. Court filings by Anna’s stepmother indicate a 16-year-old stepson may be under scrutiny, though authorities have not confirmed a suspect. Christopher says he will push for consequences while allowing investigators to complete their work.

02:00 AM, 11/27/2025Society
Father Demands Justice: Anna Kepner’s Stepson 'Must Face Consequences' After Teen's Death Aboard Cruise Ship

Christopher Kepner, father of 18-year-old Anna Kepner, says he will pursue justice after his daughter's death aboard the Carnival Horizon and that he wants anyone responsible to be held accountable.

Christopher says he last saw Anna on the evening of Nov. 6 when the family shared dinner on the cruise ship. The following day, a housekeeper discovered Anna’s body under a bed. Her death certificate lists the cause as "mechanically asphyxiated by other person(s)," and authorities have ruled the death a homicide.

Investigation and family statements

The FBI has confirmed it is investigating the case but has not publicly named any suspect or person of interest. Unrelated court filings by Anna’s stepmother indicate that her 16-year-old son may be under scrutiny in connection with the investigation, though officials have not confirmed that detail.

"I do not stand behind what my stepson has done," Christopher told reporters. "I want him to face the consequences ... I will be fighting to make sure that does happen."

When asked whether he believes his stepson is responsible, Christopher said he cannot definitively say the teen is guilty but also cannot rule it out. "He was the only one that was in the room and the FBI has an ongoing investigation in which they will have to provide the evidence to say that he did do it or did not do this," he said.

Family members have described the teens as close. Anna’s grandmother recalled that the two were "just like brother and sister" and "two peas in a pod." Despite that closeness, Christopher says the family must allow investigators to do their work.

Next steps and the family's resolve

Christopher said the family’s immediate priority is to cooperate with the FBI and let the investigation run its course. "Right now, my best course of action is to let the FBI do what they’re doing," he said. He added, "They have the evidence that they need. When they make the arrest then we’ll start seeing the justice side of things."

The family is preparing to observe the Thanksgiving holiday without Anna, and Christopher emphasized his determination to seek accountability as they cope with the loss.

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