The family of a teenager who tragically died on a cruise ship has made a significant decision as the investigation into her death continues.
Anna Kepner was on a Carnival cruise with her family on November 6th. Her death is being investigated as a possible homicide.
The death certificate, shared with ABC News, indicates that the cheerleader died due to ‘mechanical asphyxiation by other person(s)’, with evidence of bruising on her neck suggesting strangulation in a bar hold.
In a new development, an attorney representing Anna’s stepmother has indicated that her 16-year-old stepbrother might face charges related to her death.
Millicent Athanason, who represents Anna’s stepmother, Shauntel Kepner (also known by her ex-husband’s surname, Hudson), provided a statement concerning the ongoing investigation into the incident.
Athanason informed Fox News on Friday: “We’re not sure what the FBI is going to do […] Whether he’s going to be charged federally or whether they’re going to turn it over to the state.”
During a court hearing, Athanason mentioned: “They’re also waiting on some testing results. They’ve done a bunch of psychological testing and psychiatric testing, so they’re also waiting to hear about that.
“And so they don’t know at this time how long that child is going to be at her relative’s house.”
Anna was discovered under a bed, wrapped in a blanket and covered with life vests.
The FBI is leading the investigation, but no charges have been announced, nor any suspects publicly identified.
In a related development, Anna’s family reportedly decided to remove her 16-year-old stepbrother from their home in Florida.
During the cruise, Anna shared a cabin with her 14-year-old brother and 16-year-old stepbrother. The family noted the siblings had a good relationship.
Anna’s grandmother, Barbara Kepner, reminisced about Anna’s aspirations and upcoming high school graduation, as well as her dream to join the US Navy.
She expressed: “We were all having a great time. I couldn’t fathom why anyone would wanna hurt my baby.”
Her grandfather, Jeffrey Kepner, shared his sorrow: “We were looking forward to seeing her grow.
“The cruise itself wasn’t what made me excited. It was the fact that I was gonna get to spend another week with my youngest son and his family and all the grandkids.”
The cruise line has confirmed its full cooperation with the FBI’s investigation.