Stepbrother Charged in Teen's Cruise Ship Murder

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The 16-year-old stepbrother of high school cheerleader Anna Kepner has been charged with homicide as a juvenile in connection with her November death aboard the Carnival Horizon, according to court documents reviewed by CBS News. Investigators determined 18-year-old Kepner, found under a bed in the cabin she shared with the stepbrother, died of mechanical asphyxia on Nov. 7.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tragic consequences of violence on cruise ships, which are often seen as safe and carefree environments. It also raises questions about the challenges of investigating crimes that occur in international waters and the need for stronger safety protocols and security measures on cruise lines.

The details

Federal prosecutors and the FBI, leading the probe because Kepner was a US citizen who died in international waters, have declined to comment, but CBS reports a sealed case against the teen is pending before US District Judge Beth Bloom, and the boy appeared in her Miami courtroom on Feb. 6. Authorities had previously been investigating him in Kepner's death; law enforcement sources told CBS they believe she may have been strangled during a confrontation and that alcohol may have been involved. Officials allege a bar hold was used, per the Guardian. The boy has reportedly said he can't remember anything of the time in question.

• Kepner was found dead on November 7, 2025.
• The stepbrother was charged on February 3, 2026.
• The stepbrother appeared in court on February 6, 2026.

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on whether to release the 16-year-old stepbrother on bail.