Anna Kepner’s Father Demands Justice for Cruise Murder: Stepbrother’s Arrest Sought
Christopher Kepner is calling for accountability after his daughter, 18-year-old Anna Kepner, was found dead on a Carnival cruise ship on Nov. 7. He says he will not rest until justice is served. The family says the death occurred during a multi-generational vacation aboard Carnival Horizon.
Allegations and charges
The suspect is a 16-year-old stepbrother identified in court records as T.H. Federal prosecutors have indicted him on first-degree murder and aggravated sexual abuse charges. He faces a possible life term if convicted.
Authorities first charged the teen as a juvenile on Feb. 2. A federal grand jury later returned an indictment in the Southern District of Florida.
Scene and cause of death
Investigators found Anna inside her cabin around 11:15 a.m. on Nov. 7. She was discovered under the bed, wrapped in a blanket and covered with life jackets.
Officials later ruled her death a homicide caused by mechanical asphyxiation. The cabin was shared with the accused stepbrother.
Family response and public calls
Kepner has publicly demanded swift action. He called for the teen to be detained and expressed concern about public safety.
The family held a memorial at Grove Church in Titusville on Nov. 20, 2025. Relatives say the vacation included Anna, her father, stepmother, grandparents and several siblings.
Statements and remand concerns
Christopher Kepner told reporters he is upset the accused remains free and living with a relative. He said the situation fuels calls for the stepbrother’s arrest sought by grieving family members.
The father also said the teen has not shown remorse and has told investigators he cannot remember the events. Kepner described the accused as a danger to others.
Court appearance and federal response
The teenager appeared in federal court in Miami on Feb. 6. He entered wearing a camouflage hoodie and a low-pulled cap, according to court images.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Southern District of Florida said prosecutors will present the evidence. U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones emphasized that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
The case has drawn national attention. Anna’s father continues to press for justice in the cruise murder, and his calls remain central to the public discussion.
