New developments continue to emerge in the death investigation of 18-year-old Florida cheerleader Anna Grace Kepner, who was found deceased aboard the Carnival Horizon cruise ship earlier this month.
Federal authorities have not announced any arrests; however, court documents and statements from individuals close to the case confirm that Anna’s 16-year-old stepbrother, Timothy Hudson, has been identified as a suspect.
Newly filed court records and statements from family members are shedding light on the ongoing federal investigation into the death of 18-year-old Anna Kepner, who was found deceased aboard the Carnival Horizon cruise ship earlier this month. According to those documents, one of Anna’s step-siblings — identified by family members as 16-year-old Timothy “Tim” Hudson — may soon face criminal charges relating to her death.
Multiple reports indicate that Anna’s preliminary cause of death was asphyxiation caused by a “bar hold,” meaning pressure was applied to her neck using an arm. According to sources familiar with the investigation:
There were no signs of sexual assault.
Toxicology results did not detect drugs or alcohol.
The Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner’s Office has not yet released a final autopsy or official manner of death.
The FBI, which has jurisdiction due to the death occurring at sea aboard a U.S.-flagged vessel, has declined public comment.
Anna was found deceased on November 8, 2025, after the vessel docked in Miami. A cabin steward located her body wrapped in a blanket and partially concealed under a bed, with life vests placed on top.
Anna was reportedly sharing a cabin with:
Her 14-year-old biological brother
Her 16-year-old stepbrother, Timothy Hudson
Surveillance footage reportedly confirms Anna returned to the cabin shortly after dinner on the evening of November 6, when she told family members she felt unwell. She was never seen exiting the room again.
Statements made publicly and through court filings paint a troubling picture of the relationship between Anna and her stepbrother.
Joshua Tew, Anna’s former boyfriend, claims Hudson was “obsessed” with Anna and made repeated attempts to pursue her romantically despite their family ties.
Tew says he once witnessed Hudson climb on top of Anna while she was asleep during a FaceTime call.
Other family and friend statements allege Hudson carried a knife regularly, making Anna uncomfortable and fearful.
A source close to the investigation stated that Anna’s younger brother reportedly heard:
“Yelling and a commotion”
coming from the cabin while Anna was locked inside alone with Hudson. The brother reportedly assumed the situation was not serious and later went to sleep believing Anna had left the room voluntarily.
Court testimony revealed that Hudson was transported to a hospital immediately after the ship returned to port.
Authorities have not clarified why. Court filings later confirmed:
“A criminal case may be initiated against one of the minor children.”
Hudson is now residing with a relative while the investigation continues.
Anna’s funeral was held in Titusville this week. Due to the sensitive nature of the investigation, some family members were reportedly informed they were not permitted to attend.
Her biological mother, Heather Wright, traveled from Oklahoma and has publicly stated she learned of her daughter’s death through an online search, not through family notification or authorities.
Retired FBI Special Agent Jennifer Coffindaffer told local media:
“The FBI will leave no stone unturned. The suspect, the shared living space, the location of the body — all of it creates a clear opportunity for this crime.”
She also noted investigators would likely have compelled medical testing from Hudson upon docking, including toxicology.
Anna, affectionately known as “Anna Banana,” was described as joyful, outgoing, and deeply loved.
She attended Temple Christian School in Titusville, Florida, where she was active in cheerleading and athletics. She hoped to one day cheer for the Georgia Bulldogs.
Her obituary stated:
“She filled the world with laughter, love, and light.”
The FBI is reviewing thousands of hours of cruise surveillance video, according to a law enforcement source.
No arrests have been made, and officials continue to emphasize the investigation is active and ongoing.
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