Teenage Stepbrother Identified as Suspect in Cruise Ship Death of Florida High School Senior

A 16-year-old boy has been identified as a suspect in the death of his 18-year-old stepsister, Anna Kepner, who was found deceased aboard the Carnival Horizon cruise ship earlier this month. Court documents from a custody dispute between the boy's parents reveal that both acknowledge their son is under FBI investigation in connection with Kepner's death.

Kepner, a high school cheerleader from Florida's Space Coast, was on a family vacation with her father, stepmother, and stepsiblings when she was discovered dead in her cabin. The Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner's office has not yet released a final autopsy report detailing the cause and manner of her death.

During a custody hearing in Brevard County, Florida, it was revealed that the 16-year-old was hospitalized upon returning to Port Miami on November 8 and is currently staying with a relative. Attorneys representing the boy's parents discussed the possibility of calling him to testify about the circumstances surrounding Kepner's death. Judge Michelle Studstill noted that a hearing would be necessary before the minor could testify and anticipated that the child might invoke his Fifth Amendment right.

The FBI has not confirmed the 16-year-old as a suspect and stated that it does not provide operational updates on ongoing investigations. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage and electronic data from the cruise ship to determine who entered Kepner's cabin. They are also examining her cellphone records and conducting interviews with passengers, crew members, and family members.

A memorial service for Kepner was held in Titusville, Florida, where family and friends gathered to celebrate her life. Attendees were encouraged to wear colorful clothing in honor of her vibrant spirit.