Teen Who Shared Cabin with Anna Kepner Faces Federal Scrutiny in Cruise Ship Death

The stepbrother of the Florida teenager who died aboard a Carnival cruise ship appeared in federal court as the FBI continues to investigate her death.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The 16-year-old stepbrother of Florida teenager Anna Kepner, who was found dead aboard a Carnival cruise ship in November, appeared in federal court in Miami as the FBI continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding her death. Kepner's mother says she feels a sense of relief that the case appears to be moving forward and hopes it will finally bring answers.

Why it matters

Kepner's death aboard the Carnival Horizon cruise ship in international waters has raised serious questions about safety and security on cruise ships, as well as the handling of potential crimes that occur in international jurisdictions. The FBI's involvement indicates the gravity of the case and the need for a thorough federal investigation.

The details

Kepner, an 18-year-old from Titusville, Florida, was found dead inside her cabin aboard the Carnival Horizon cruise ship on November 7. Authorities later ruled her death a homicide caused by "mechanical asphyxiation." Kepner was discovered under the bed in her cabin, wrapped in a blanket and covered with life jackets. The cabin was shared with her 16-year-old stepbrother, who was seen leaving juvenile court before entering adult federal court on Friday.

  • Kepner was found dead around 11:15 a.m. on November 7 inside her cabin aboard the cruise ship.
  • Kepner's stepbrother appeared in federal court in Miami on February 10, 2026, three months after Kepner's death.

The players

Anna Kepner

An 18-year-old Florida teenager who was found dead aboard a Carnival cruise ship in November.

Heather Wright

Kepner's mother, who told FOX 35 that she feels a sense of relief that the case appears to be moving forward and hopes it will finally bring answers.

Kepner's 16-year-old stepbrother

The teenager who was seen leaving juvenile court before entering adult federal court as part of the FBI's investigation into Kepner's death.

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What they’re saying

“Everyday I get on my phone, and first thing in the morning I will look at updates on Anna Kepner's case. All I want is justice for my daughter.”

— Heather Wright, Kepner's mother (FOX 35)

What’s next

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

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the need for improved safety and security measures on cruise ships, as well as the challenges of investigating crimes that occur in international waters. The FBI's involvement underscores the seriousness of the investigation and the desire for justice for Anna Kepner and her family.