Investigation Continues Into Anna Kepner’s Death Aboard a Carnival Cruise Ship

An 18-year-old student from Central Florida died aboard a Carnival cruise ship during a Caribbean family vacation. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have released few details.

Anna Kepner's body was found in her cabin, underneath the bed and covered with a blanket and life jackets. A death certificate provided to ABC News lists the cause as mechanical asphyxia, with the injury dated November 6.

The Kepner family was aboard the Carnival Horizon with Anna's father, her stepmother, a sibling, step-siblings, and grandparents. Her relatives described a close and blended family unit, eager to spend time together on the voyage.

Officials have not named any suspects and no charges have been filed. The Miami-Dade Medical Examiner's Office did not confirm ABC’s report and declined further comment, citing an active investigation. Carnival Corp. says it is fully cooperating with the FBI inquiry.

What happened on the ship

According to family statements, Anna was on the trip alongside loved ones when she was found in her cabin. The initial reporting indicates that she was discovered after spending the day with family members, including a visit to the ship’s casino on the last full day of the cruise. The investigation is examining the sequence of events inside the cabin, as well as security footage and passenger records.

Anna had planned to graduate from high school in May and hoped to join the US Navy. Her grandparents described her as kind and resilient, and they say the family remains eager for full transparency from investigators.

Family response

Speaking publicly for the first time, Anna’s grandparents told reporters they are seeking answers and want to understand what happened to their granddaughter. They highlighted the importance of clear communication from investigators and the cruise line as the case unfolds.

The family emphasized that the trip was about spending meaningful time together, not about the cruise experience itself, and they described a loving, blended family that functions as one unit.

Key takeaways

• Death listed as mechanical asphyxia; investigation ongoing
• No suspects or charges announced; FBI involvement confirmed
• Cruise line cooperating with authorities
• Family on board and publicly speaking about their loss
• Paucity of publicly released details as the case remains active

Expert perspective

Expert note: Forensic medicine specialists caution that early conclusions can change as autopsy results and additional evidence are reviewed. Investigations in cruise ship cases often involve multiple agencies and can take time.

Summary

The death of Anna Kepner aboard a Carnival cruise ship is under active investigation, with authorities listing mechanical asphyxia as the initial cause. Her family is seeking fuller answers as investigators, the FBI, and the cruise line review all available evidence. This case highlights the complexity of shipboard investigations and the sensitivity required when families are involved.

Cruise-ship investigations require careful coordination between agencies and can take time to uncover what happened. BBC News