FBI Investigates Death of Florida Teen on Carnival Horizon Cruise Ship

MIAMI, Fla. — November 21, 2025 — Authorities are investigating the death of Anna Kepner, a Florida teenager found dead aboard the Carnival Horizon cruise ship, as questions mount over the circumstances leading up to the tragedy.

The FBI has joined the inquiry into Kepner’s death, which occurred during the ship’s recent voyage. Officials said the investigation is ongoing, with a focus on understanding the events that preceded her passing.

According to sources familiar with the case, a video call involving Kepner showed her stepbrother climbing “on top of” her shortly before her death. This detail emerged from statements made by Kepner’s ex-boyfriend, who described the interaction during the call. Authorities have not confirmed the exact nature of the relationship between the two or the context of the video call.

The incident has sparked disputes within Kepner’s family, with conflicting accounts about the circumstances surrounding her death. Legal representatives for the family have indicated that they are pursuing all available avenues to uncover the truth and seek justice.

Carnival Cruise Line released a statement expressing condolences to the family and confirming full cooperation with law enforcement agencies. The company emphasized its commitment to passenger safety and said it is conducting an internal review of the incident.

Cruise ship deaths are relatively rare but often prompt extensive investigations due to the complex jurisdictional and safety issues involved. The FBI’s involvement suggests that federal authorities consider the case to have potential criminal or suspicious elements.

Kepner’s death has drawn attention to the challenges of monitoring passenger safety on large cruise ships, where incidents can occur away from public view. Experts note that video evidence and witness testimony are critical in such cases but can be difficult to obtain.

Family members have called for transparency and a thorough investigation. Legal experts say the case could lead to civil litigation depending on the findings of the criminal inquiry.

As the investigation proceeds, officials have not released further details about the cause of death or any suspects. The FBI and local authorities continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses.

The Carnival Horizon was on a scheduled cruise in the Caribbean at the time of the incident. The ship has since returned to port, where the investigation is being coordinated with local law enforcement.

This case highlights the complexities involved when deaths occur in international waters or aboard vessels registered in foreign countries but carrying U.S. citizens. Jurisdictional questions often require cooperation among multiple agencies.

The FBI has urged anyone with additional information to come forward to assist in the investigation. Meanwhile, the community mourns the loss of the young passenger, and the cruise industry faces renewed scrutiny over passenger safety protocols.