Investigation Underway into Cheerleader's Mysterious Death on Carnival Cruise Ship

Thu Nov 20 2025 01:02:19 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The death of 18-year-old Anna Kepner aboard a Carnival cruise ship has prompted an FBI investigation. Details remain sparse as the community mourns her loss.

The tragic death of high school cheerleader Anna Kepner on a Carnival cruise is raising eyebrows and concerns. While the Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner is yet to release the autopsy report, the FBI is investigating potential links to a minor child in a separate legal case. As her family plans a celebratory memorial service, the community remains in shock over the circumstances of her passing.

The mysterious death of a high school cheerleader aboard a Carnival cruise ship has captured international attention, stirring intense speculation online. Eighteen-year-old Anna Kepner's untimely passing remains under investigation as authorities have yet to file any criminal charges against individuals involved.

As of Wednesday, the cause and manner of Kepner's death await a final autopsy report from the Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner's office. The investigation gained traction following a court filing revealing that the FBI is looking into her death, suggesting potential implications involving a minor child.

In a surprising twist, the court documents arose from a marital dissolution case between Thomas and Shauntel Hudson. The filing suggests that Kepner's father was romantically involved with Hudson, who was also traveling aboard the ship with her children at the time of the incident.

The FBI has remained tight-lipped regarding operational details, with agency spokespersons refusing to comment on ongoing probes. An emergency motion filed by Hudson’s attorney emphasizes that her client cannot be compelled to testify, to prevent any possible prejudicial impacts on her or her family during this investigation.

Hudson’s attorney argues that any testimony could jeopardize the interests of both her and her adolescent child as the FBI continues to explore the circumstances surrounding Kepner’s death.

Despite the lack of clear answers, a memorial service for Kepner is planned for Thursday. Her family has requested attendees to wear vibrant colors, celebrating her life instead of the traditional black mourning attire, calling it a tribute to her bright and beautiful soul.

Kepner’s obituary highlights her love for the sea, noting her future aspirations of graduating from Temple Christian School in Titusville, Florida, just a short distance from Orlando. The Carnival Horizon can accommodate nearly 4,000 guests and sails primarily to the Caribbean. Carnival Cruise Line confirmed the ship returned to PortMiami on November 8 as scheduled and is cooperating with the FBI.

As the investigation unfolds, the community mourns the loss of a young life filled with potential.

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