Florida Teen Found Dead on Carnival Cruise Died from Asphyxiation Caused by ‘Bar Hold,’ FBI Investigating
TITUSVILLE, FL — Federal investigators are examining the death of 18-year-old Anna Kepner, a Florida teenager found dead under a bed aboard the Carnival Horizon cruise ship earlier this month. A medical report now confirms she died from asphyxiation resulting from a bar hold, a restraint involving an arm placed across the neck.
Authorities say Kepner’s body was discovered wrapped in a blanket, prompting a criminal investigation led by the FBI and the Miami-Dade Medical Examiner’s Office. Officials determined she had two visible bruises on the side of her neck, consistent with strangulation.
The FBI has declined to release further details, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.
Death Investigation Expands to Family Members
Court documents from a separate family case indicate that Kepner’s stepbrother may face charges in connection with her death. According to filings reviewed by investigators, the FBI’s case stems from “the sudden death of 18-year-old Anna Kepner” and the possibility of foul play.
Reports suggest the stepbrother may have had an “unusual infatuation” with Kepner. One source, identified as her ex-boyfriend, claimed the stepbrother once climbed on top of her during a FaceTime call, behavior that raised concerns within her family.
Another report noted that the stepbrother’s fixation appeared to have been longstanding and obsessive.
“He apparently always wanted to date her,” said a source familiar with the investigation.
Family Ties Under Scrutiny
Court filings also show that Shauntel Hudson, Kepner’s stepmother, requested a delay in her ongoing custody hearing, citing that one of her children may be charged in connection with the teen’s death. Hudson was reportedly aboard the cruise with her children, Kepner, and the victim’s father at the time of the incident.
The family’s attorney has not commented on the case.
FBI and Medical Examiner Continue to Investigate
The Miami-Dade Medical Examiner’s Office has confirmed that the cause of death was asphyxiation due to neck compression, ruling out natural causes. However, no official homicide charge has yet been filed.
The FBI’s Miami Field Office is leading the investigation because the incident occurred in international waters aboard a U.S.-registered vessel. Agents have been interviewing passengers and reviewing surveillance footage from the ship.
Officials emphasize that the case remains open, and additional charges could be filed once evidence is reviewed.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the FBI’s Miami office or local authorities.
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