Stepbrother Charged in Carnival Cruise Death of Florida Teen

Anna Kepner's mother says her 16-year-old stepbrother is being charged with first-degree murder in the cheerleader's death aboard a Carnival ship.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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The stepbrother of Anna Kepner, an 18-year-old Florida cheerleader who was found dead aboard a Carnival Cruise Line ship in November, is being charged with first-degree murder, according to the teen's mother. Kepner's body was discovered under a bed in the cabin she shared with her stepbrother and another sibling. Her death was ruled a homicide, with the medical examiner determining she died from mechanical asphyxiation.

Why it matters

This tragic case has raised concerns about safety and security protocols on cruise ships, as well as the need for thorough investigations into incidents involving minors. Kepner's death has also highlighted the complex family dynamics that can sometimes lead to violence, underscoring the importance of mental health support and resources for young people.

The details

According to Kepner's mother, Heather Wright, the 16-year-old stepbrother is being charged with first-degree murder. Court documents and family statements previously revealed that the stepbrother was being investigated as a suspect in connection to Kepner's death. The Federal Bureau of Investigation is also investigating the case, but has not released any information about potential suspects.

  • On November 7, Kepner's body was found under a bed in the cabin she shared with her stepbrother and another sibling.
  • The Carnival Horizon cruise ship returned to Port Miami on November 8, and Kepner's body was taken to the Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner's Department.
  • On February 6, Kepner's stepbrother appeared before a federal magistrate in Miami.

The players

Anna Kepner

An 18-year-old cheerleader from Titusville, Florida, who was found dead aboard a Carnival Cruise Line ship in November.

Heather Wright

Anna Kepner's mother, who announced that her 16-year-old stepbrother is being charged with first-degree murder in her daughter's death.

Chris Kepner

Anna Kepner's father, who confirmed that her stepbrother had been arrested and charged.

Anna Kepner's Stepbrother

A 16-year-old who is being charged with first-degree murder in Anna Kepner's death.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

The agency investigating Anna Kepner's death, though they have not released any information about potential suspects.

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What they’re saying

“They are going to charge ... her 16-year-old stepbrother with first-degree murder and there are going to be some other charges brought, but I'm not sure what they are yet. Until they tell me, I don't know more.”

— Heather Wright, Anna Kepner's Mother (TikTok)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery Employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Anna Kepner's stepbrother out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for improved safety and security protocols on cruise ships, as well as the importance of addressing mental health and family dynamics that can lead to tragic outcomes involving minors.