Mysterious Death of Teen Cheerleader on Carnival Cruise Ignites Speculation

Thu Nov 20 2025 00:40:23 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The death of 18-year-old Anna Kepner aboard the Carnival Horizon has led to an FBI investigation, with social media buzzing over the complexities surrounding her passing.

The intrigue surrounding the unexplained death of cheerleader Anna Kepner on a Carnival cruise has intensified due to an FBI investigation suggesting potential criminal implications involving a minor. A memorial service is set as her family calls for bright attire to honor her vibrant spirit.

The mysterious death of high school cheerleader Anna Kepner aboard a Carnival cruise ship has captured international attention, raising numerous questions and fueling speculation across social media platforms.

As of this week, authorities have yet to disclose any criminal charges related to the death of the 18-year-old, with a final autopsy report still awaited from the Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner’s office.

Interest surrounding the circumstances of Kepner's death escalated after court documents revealed that the FBI is conducting an investigation, indicating that a minor may be involved.

These filing documents are part of a separate dissolution of marriage case between Thomas Hudson and Shauntel Hudson, wherein Shauntel referred to Anna's father as her paramour. Anna was reportedly on the cruise with Shauntel Hudson and her children.

While an FBI spokesperson has refrained from providing details on the ongoing investigation, a motion was presented by Hudson's attorney to postpone a scheduled court hearing due to Anna's death, implying that potential criminal actions may arise against one of her minor children.

Hudson's attorney has expressed concern that testimony from her could possibly be harmful to her or her child, considering the current investigation.

Emails and phone messages directed to Hudson for comment on Wednesday went unanswered. The FBI has confirmed that any forthcoming charges would be issued by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida.

A memorial service to celebrate Anna’s life is scheduled for Thursday, where her family encourages attendees to wear colorful outfits instead of the somber black traditionally worn during mourning, reflecting on Anna’s lively spirit.

According to her obituary, Anna was an enthusiastic student who cherished her time on the water and was poised to graduate from Temple Christian School in Titusville, Florida, next year.

The Carnival Horizon, capable of accommodating nearly 4,000 guests, had concluded its Caribbean journey, returning to PortMiami as scheduled and is cooperating with the FBI in the investigation.