Death of 18-Year-Old on Carnival Cruise Ship Ruled Homicide

The death of 18-year-old Anna Kepner aboard the Carnival Horizon cruise ship has been officially ruled a homicide, according to a death certificate issued on Monday. The document states that Kepner's death was caused by "mechanical asphyxia" and that she "was mechanically asphyxiated by other person(s)." The date of injury is listed as November 6, though the exact time remains unknown.

Kepner was found deceased under a bed, wrapped in a blanket and covered by life vests, while on vacation with her family, including her grandparents, father, stepmother, siblings, and stepsiblings.

The Miami-Dade medical examiner has not released autopsy or toxicology reports and declined to comment on the case. The FBI has also not commented on the investigation.

A court filing in an unrelated family court matter noted that Kepner's stepbrother, a minor, could face charges. No charges have been filed to date.

Kepner, who was set to graduate high school in May, aspired to join the Navy. Her grandfather, Jeffrey Kepner, expressed his sorrow, saying, "We were looking forward to seeing her grow."