In loving memory of Anna Kepner, an 18-year-old from Titusville whose life was tragically cut short aboard a family cruise on November 7, 2025. Anna’s passing has left her family, friends, and all who knew her struggling to understand and come to terms with such a sudden and heartbreaking loss.

Anna was traveling with her father, Christopher Kepner, her stepmother, and her siblings on the Carnival Horizon, a trip that was meant to be filled with laughter, memories, and togetherness. Instead, the family was confronted with unimaginable grief when Anna was found deceased under a bed in their cabin. The Miami-Dade Medical Examiner’s Office listed the cause of death as “mechanically asphyxiated by other person(s),” and federal authorities are treating the case as a homicide.

A Father’s Heartbreak

Christopher Kepner, Anna’s father, has spoken publicly about the tragedy. He recalls the evening before the incident, when the family gathered for dinner on the ship, unaware that it would be the last time he would see his daughter alive. His words reflect the pain of a parent suddenly confronted with loss:

“I do not stand behind what my stepson has done. I want him to face the consequences … I will be fighting to make sure that does happen,” he said, acknowledging the ongoing investigation into his 16-year-old stepson, who has been named as a potential suspect in unrelated court documents.

Christopher also expressed the difficulty of navigating the uncertainty surrounding Anna’s passing. “I cannot say that he is responsible, but I can’t decline. He was the only one that was in the room, and the FBI has an ongoing investigation which will determine the facts,” he said.

Family and Community in Mourning

For Anna’s relatives, the holiday season has only magnified the heartbreak. Her aunt, Krystal Wright, described the family’s turmoil: “It’s a turmoil. We’re just sitting here waiting. I know Anna fought. I know she fought for her life, so it’s rough. It’s rough.”

Anna’s grandmother, Barbara Kepner, spoke of the close bond Anna shared with her stepbrother, noting that the two were “just like brother and sister … two peas in a pod.” For those who knew Anna, she was a bright, kind, and loving young woman whose warmth and energy left a lasting impression.

A Life Remembered

Beyond the headlines and the investigation, Anna will be remembered for her spirit, her laughter, and the joy she brought to those around her. She was a daughter, a sister, a niece, and a friend — someone whose presence enriched the lives of everyone she touched.

Her family, especially her father, Christopher, is now left to honor her memory while navigating the uncertainty of the ongoing investigation. The FBI continues to investigate, reviewing evidence and interviewing potential witnesses to ensure that the circumstances of Anna’s passing are fully understood.

A Call for Remembrance and Healing

In loving memory of Anna Kepner, 18, her story is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the moments we share with those we love. Her family hopes that by remembering Anna’s kindness, courage, and spirit, her legacy can continue to inspire and touch others.

May Anna’s memory be a blessing, and may her father, family, and friends find comfort in the love and support that surrounds them during this profoundly difficult time.