Anna Kepner’s Family Speaks Out After Stepbrother Charged with Murdering Her on Carnival Cruise Ship | Anna Kepner, crime, Human Interest | Celebrity News and Gossip | Entertainment, Photos and Videos

The family of Anna Kepner is speaking out after her stepbrother was charged with murder and aggravated sexual abuse.

Anna‘s 16-year-old stepbrother, who has only been identified as T.H. in court documents due to his age, will be tried as an adult and could be sentenced to life in prison if he’s convicted.

Anna was found dead on the Carnival Cruise Line’s Horizon ship on November 7, 2025. She died while the ship was returning to Florida after a weeklong trip to the Caribbean. All that is known is that Anna returned to her room, which she was sharing with her stepbrother, on the night of November 6 and she was found dead under her bed at around noon on November 7. The cause of death was determined to be mechanical asphyxiation.

Anna‘s father Chris Kepner is married to the suspect’s mother, Shauntel Kepner.

Chris and Shauntel released a statement following the news of T.H. being charged.

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“Our family is devastated by the loss of Anna and continues to grieve this unimaginable tragedy. We are aware of the serious charges that have now been brought forward. While the legal process moves ahead, we are placing our trust in the justice system to pursue the truth with care and integrity,” they said in a statement to ABC News.

They continued, We want to express our appreciation to law enforcement, including the FBI, for their involvement in this case. At the same time, we are deeply concerned and troubled that, despite the seriousness of the charges, he has not yet been taken into custody. We believe accountability is critical and are seeking clarity on this matter. This situation is deeply painful and complex for our entire family. We respectfully ask for privacy, compassion, and understanding as we navigate this incredibly difficult time. Anna was deeply loved, and we remain committed to honoring her life and memory every day.”