Anna Kepner's family searches for answers, as Carnival passengers remember chaotic night of teen's death

Investigators have yet to make any arrests three weeks after 18-year-old Anna Kepner from Titusville died during a family cruise. Her relatives express growing concern, while passengers recall confusion and limited information during the incident. Authorities, including the FBI and the medical examiner, have not disclosed the cause of her death.

ORLANDO, Fla. It has been three weeks since Anna Kepner boarded the Carnival Horizon with her family and did not return home. The young woman was found dead earlier this month while traveling with her father, stepmother, and siblings. Court documents indicate that her 16-year-old stepbrother is considered a suspect and that federal investigators are treating her death as a potential homicide.

A Brevard County judge recently confirmed that a custody case involving Annas stepmother and her ex-husband will stay public, which may require testimony from Annas father, Christopher Kepner. Family members report that Anna had been staying in the same cabin as her stepbrother during the cruise.

The FBI continues its investigation, but no arrests have been made. Both relatives and cruise passengers are struggling with uncertainty following the November 7 incident.

Krystal Wright, Annas aunt, described the familys distress over the holiday week: "Its turmoil. Were just waiting," she said, emphasizing the heartbreak and frustration caused by the lack of information. Wright learned through custody documents that the stepbrother is a suspect, although no charges have been filed. "We dont understand why he hasnt been charged yet," she added. She also believes that Anna fought for her life: "I know she fought. Its rough."

Passengers aboard the Carnival Horizon that night also reported confusion. Tina Altman, a traveler, recounted an emergency call around 11 a.m., directing staff to the eighth floor, where cabin security later sealed off the area where Anna was found. The ship arrived in Miami the following day. "There are still many unknowns, and I dont think well know everything for a long time," Altman said, sharing her personal sympathy as a parent of young adults.

Authorities, including the FBI and the Miami-Dade Medical Examiners Office, have not identified or arrested any suspect and have released no details on the cause of Kepners death. The story is based on court records and interviews with Anna Kepners aunt, Krystal Wright, and passenger Tina Altman.

Author: Sophia Brooks