ANNA KEPNER, An arrest has been made in the murder case of 18-year-old Anna Kepner, the Titusville, Florida teen who was found dead aboard a Carnival cruise ship in November, according to statements shared by family members.
Anna Kepner’s stepbrother, 17-year-old Timothy “Tim” Hudson, has turned himself in, according to a Facebook post by Anna’s grandmother, Barbara Collins Kepner. The arrest comes nearly three months after Anna was discovered deceased during a family cruise. Family members said Hudson had been staying with his grandmother in the period leading up to his arrest.
Barbara Collins Kepner stated online that the case was initially filed in juvenile court in the state of Florida. She added that federal authorities are involved and that the FBI is expected to seek to have the case moved to adult court. Because the suspect is under the age of 18, court records are currently sealed.
In her posts, the grandmother alleged that Anna’s father, Thomas Hudson, and stepmother, Tabitha Kepner, interfered with the investigation, claims that have not been independently verified by law enforcement. Family members said they are allowing the legal process to move forward and have limited public comment as proceedings continue.
Anna’s uncle, Drew Kepner, also shared an update in a Facebook group dedicated to the case, expressing frustration over the length of time it took for an arrest to be made. He described the delay as deeply painful for the family and said they continue to seek justice for Anna.
Due to the juvenile status of the suspect, authorities have confirmed that details remain restricted. Investigators have indicated that once the case is formally transferred to adult court, additional information may become public.
Anna Kepner was found dead on November 7, 2025, while returning from a six-day Caribbean cruise with her family. A crew member discovered her body concealed beneath a bed inside a cabin. The Miami-Dade Medical Examiner later ruled her death a homicide caused by mechanical asphyxia.
Because the incident occurred in international waters, jurisdiction fell to federal authorities, and the FBI assumed control of the investigation after the ship docked in Miami on November 8. Officials remained largely silent for months while the investigation continued.
Anna was a high school senior described by family and friends as a cheerleader with plans for military service. Her death has continued to raise questions surrounding safety at sea and the pursuit of accountability as the legal process moves forward.
