The tragic death of an 18-year-old Florida cheerleader aboard a Carnival cruise ship is now entangled with potential criminal charges against one of her step-siblings. The incident, which has garnered significant attention, took place earlier this month and continues to unravel with new developments.
Anna Kepner’s untimely demise has stirred up a complex legal situation, highlighted by a recent family court filing. Her stepmother, Shauntel Hudson, has requested a postponement of a custody hearing, as reported by ABC News. The request is based on advice from FBI investigators and legal counsel, suggesting that criminal proceedings might soon involve one of Hudson’s minor children.
The filing articulates the precarious position Hudson finds herself in, stating, “The Respondent has been advised that a criminal case may be initiated against one of the minor children involved in this case.” It further explains that any testimony from Hudson could potentially harm the criminal investigation, hence her reluctance to testify.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, which is spearheading the inquiry into Kepner’s death, has refrained from making any public comments. However, Hudson’s court documents make it clear that the FBI is actively investigating the “sudden death of 18-year-old Anna Kepner.”
Anna Kepner’s body was discovered on November 7 while the Carnival Horizon was docked in Cuba, according to CrimeOnline. The cruise ship made a swift return to Florida once the investigation commenced. It was reported that Kepner had returned to her cabin on November 6, complaining of feeling unwell. Tragically, she was not seen alive again, and a maid discovered her lifeless body the following morning concealed beneath the bed, wrapped in life jackets and a blanket.
As the case continues to unfold, the medical examiner has yet to release an official cause of death, leaving many questions unanswered.
Hudson and her children were on the cruise along with Kepner’s father, Christopher Kepner, and his daughter were on the cruise.
ABC News said it had asked for a comment from the family but has not heard back.
