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Aunt: 'She Fought for Her Life' — Family Demands Answers After 18-Year-Old Found Dead on Cruise

Anna Kepner, 18, was found dead beneath a bed on the Carnival Horizon on Nov. 8; a death certificate lists "mechanically asphyxiated by other person(s)," and an autopsy cited a bar hold. Court papers indicate a 16-year-old stepbrother is under criminal investigation, but no charges have been filed. Her aunt, Krystal Wright, said, "I know she fought for her life," while authorities—including federal agents—continue an active inquiry and have not named suspects.

09:48 PM, 11/29/2025Society
Aunt: 'She Fought for Her Life' — Family Demands Answers After 18-Year-Old Found Dead on Cruise

Anna Kepner, an 18-year-old from Titusville, Florida, was found dead beneath a bed aboard the Carnival Horizon on Nov. 8 while traveling with family. A death certificate lists the cause as “mechanically asphyxiated by other person(s),” and an autopsy concluded the teen died from asphyxiation consistent with a bar hold—an arm held across the neck.

What happened

Anna was on a family cruise with her father, stepmother, siblings and stepsiblings and had been sharing a cabin with two stepsiblings when she was discovered. Court filings in ongoing custody proceedings indicate a 16-year-old stepbrother is the subject of a criminal investigation, though no arrests or formal charges have been announced. Federal authorities are conducting an active inquiry and have not publicly identified any suspects.

Family reaction

“I know Anna fought. I know she fought for her life,” said her aunt, Krystal Wright, describing the family’s grief and frustration as they wait for answers.

Wright and other relatives say they are struggling with the uncertainty and want clarity about the investigation and any next steps. Anna’s father, Christopher Kepner, has acknowledged the possibility that the stepson may be involved while stressing that investigators must produce evidence to determine responsibility.

Ongoing investigation

Local and federal investigators are handling the case. Because the probe is active, officials have released few public details. Family members continue to press for transparency and timely updates as investigators work to establish what happened and whether charges will follow.

The family’s primary focus remains on honoring Anna’s memory and obtaining answers about the circumstances of her death.

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