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Teenager faces adult charges in cruise ship killing
Federal prosecutors have charged a 16-year-old boy with the murder and sexual assault of his 18-year-old stepsister during a family vacation aboard a Carnival cruise ship last November.
Incident details
The U.S. Department of Justice alleges the boy attacked Anna Kepner while the Carnival Horizon was sailing in international waters. Kepner's body was discovered beneath a bed, concealed by a blanket and life vests, according to ABC News.
The Miami-Dade medical examiner ruled her death resulted from "mechanical asphyxia."
Family describes shock and disbelief
Kepner, a high-school cheerleader set to graduate in May, had planned to enlist in the military. She was traveling with her father, stepmother, grandparents, and other relatives when the attack occurred.
"We were all having a great time. I couldn't fathom why anyone would wanna hurt my baby."
Barbara Kepner, grandmother
Her grandparents told ABC News the blended family had always considered itself unified, with no distinction between step-siblings and biological children.
"It's all family. It's a blended family, yes, but that's not how our family is. Our dynamic is we're all just family."
Jeffrey Kepner, grandfather
Legal proceedings
Initially charged as a juvenile, the boy was later indicted as an adult on first-degree murder and aggravated sexual abuse counts. If convicted, he could receive a life sentence, the Justice Department stated.
Timeline
(November 2025) - Alleged assault and killing occur aboard the Carnival Horizon.
(April 2026) - Prosecutors announce the indictment and adult charges.
