Teen Stepbrother Charged with Murder of 18-Year-Old Anna Kepner

Anna's family alleges the 16-year-old was charged with homicide months after her death on a Carnival cruise ship

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The family of 18-year-old Anna Kepner says her 16-year-old stepbrother has been charged with homicide in connection with her death. Anna was found dead in her room on a Carnival cruise ship in November 2025, and her family alleges the stepbrother was charged on February 3, 2026. The case is being tried in federal court since Anna died on open water.

Why it matters

This case raises questions about cruise ship safety, the handling of crimes that occur at sea, and the challenges of obtaining justice for victims and their families in such situations. It also highlights the complex family dynamics and potential motives that may be involved in cases of alleged filicide.

The details

According to court documents, Anna's 16-year-old stepbrother was charged with homicide as a minor in connection with her death. The stepbrother's father, Thomas Hudson, has filed for sole custody of his 9-year-old daughter, who is currently living with her mother, Shauntel Hudson, and Anna's father, Chris Kepner. The family alleges the stepbrother was charged on February 3, 2026 by the U.S. Attorney in the Southern District of Florida.

  • Anna Kepner was found dead in her room on the Carnival Horizon cruise ship on November 7, 2025.
  • The 16-year-old stepbrother was charged with homicide on February 3, 2026.

The players

Anna Kepner

An 18-year-old from Titusville, Florida who was found dead in her room on a Carnival cruise ship.

Anna Kepner's 16-year-old stepbrother

The teenager who has been charged with homicide in connection with Anna's death.

Thomas Hudson

The father of Anna's 9-year-old stepsister, who has filed for sole custody of his daughter.

Shauntel Hudson

The mother of Anna's 9-year-old stepsister, with whom the stepsister currently resides.

Chris Kepner

Anna's father, with whom Anna's 9-year-old stepsister is currently living.

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What they’re saying

“At this time, it is deeply painful and disturbing to our family that the person responsible is able to walk freely. This reality adds to our grief and outrage.”

— Shauntel and Chris Kepner (PEOPLE)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Anna's 16-year-old stepbrother to remain out on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the complexities and challenges of seeking justice for crimes that occur on cruise ships, where jurisdictional issues and family dynamics can complicate the process. It also underscores the need for improved safety measures and investigative protocols to protect passengers, especially minors, on these large floating resorts.