BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. – More than a week has passed since the tragic discovery of an 18-year-old Titusville student found dead on a Carnival cruise ship. Now, newly surfaced court documents suggest that one of her step-siblings might be under investigation.
The deceased, Anna Kepner, was a senior at Temple Christian School. She was found dead on November 7 aboard the cruise ship, although investigators have yet to disclose many details surrounding her death.
These latest revelations emerged from a motion filed by Kepner’s stepmother, Shauntel Hudson, seeking a postponement of a child custody hearing with her former spouse.
“An extremely sensitive and severe circumstance has arisen wherein (Hudson) will not be able to testify at the hearing at this time,” the motion stated.
Documents obtained by News 6 indicate that Hudson, along with her two minor children and Kepner’s father, were all on the cruise with Kepner.
Furthermore, the motion reveals that FBI investigators have informed Hudson about the possibility of a criminal case being initiated against one of her minor children.
“Any testimony (Hudson) may give, either written or oral, could be prejudicial to her or her adolescent child in this pending criminal investigation,” the motion continues. “Therefore, (Hudson) cannot be compelled to testify.”
According to CBS News, Kepner’s body was reportedly discovered by a housekeeper underneath the bed in her stateroom.
CBS News also reports that detectives are reviewing surveillance video from the ship and obtaining cell phone data as part of their inquiry.
Following her death, students and community members created a memorial around her car, which remained parked at the school. Parents and classmates described her as a caring teenager who volunteered in her grandparents’ neighborhood and was open about her faith.
Carnival Cruise Line issued a statement shortly after the incident, saying its focus was on supporting the teen’s family.
At this time, it remains unclear whether any charges have been filed, and investigators have not confirmed whether the minor referenced in the court filing is connected to the teen’s death.
Authorities say the FBI Miami field office continues to lead the investigation.
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