Tue Nov 18 11:40:00 UTC 2025: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FBI Investigates Death of Florida Teen Aboard Carnival Cruise
MIAMI, FL – The FBI has launched an investigation into the death of 18-year-old Anna Kepner, who was found dead aboard the Carnival Horizon cruise ship on Saturday. The ship had been traveling a route from Miami to the Caribbean.
Anna Kepner, a Titusville, Florida resident and straight-A student set to graduate high school in May, was remembered by her family as a vibrant and compassionate young woman with a bright future.
“When she walked into a room, she would light it up,” her family told ABC News. “If you were sad, she’d make you laugh. She would joke around and be the funniest little person in school.”
Details surrounding Anna’s death have not been released by authorities. The ship returned to Miami on Saturday, prompting the FBI investigation.
Kepner’s family said she recently took the test to join the military, expressing a desire to serve her community. She was deeply involved in volunteering, helping at her grandparents’ 55+ community and local businesses. She was involved in her high school’s varsity cheerleading team, held her boater’s license and scuba certification.
Carnival Cruise Line issued a statement confirming Kepner’s passing: “Our focus is on supporting the family of our guest and cooperating with the FBI.”
The family hopes Anna will be remembered for her generosity and spirit. They said she had a magnetic personality and an infectious smile.
“She was the best child you could ever meet,” her family said. “We’ll always remember her for who she was.”
The FBI’s investigation is ongoing. No further information is available at this time.
First Piper 