Timothy Hudson Named as Potential Suspect in Carnival Horizon Death of Anna Kepner

New developments continue to unfold in the investigation into the death of 18-year-old Florida cheerleader Anna Grace Kepner, who was found deceased earlier this month aboard the Carnival Horizon cruise ship.

Federal authorities have not announced any arrests, but newly filed court records and accounts from individuals close to the situation confirm that Anna’s 16-year-old stepbrother, Timothy “Tim” Hudson, has been identified as a suspected party in the ongoing federal case.

Investigative documents and family statements indicate that Hudson may soon face criminal charges. Preliminary findings shared by sources close to the inquiry suggest Anna’s death resulted from asphyxiation linked to a “bar hold,” meaning pressure was applied to her neck using another person’s arm. Early forensic testing also found no signs of drug or alcohol involvement, and no evidence of sexual assault. The Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner has not yet issued a final report.

Anna’s body was found on November 8, 2025, shortly after the ship returned to Miami. A cabin steward discovered her wrapped in a blanket and partially concealed beneath a bed, with life vests placed on top. She had been sharing the cabin with her 14-year-old brother and her 16-year-old stepbrother, Hudson.

Surveillance footage reportedly shows Anna returning to the cabin the night of November 6 after telling relatives she felt unwell. She was never seen leaving the room again.

Public statements from family members and associates have raised concerns about Hudson’s behavior in the months leading up to the incident. Anna’s former boyfriend, Joshua Tew, has alleged that Hudson displayed an inappropriate and persistent interest in Anna, claiming he once witnessed Hudson climb onto her while she slept during a video call. Other acquaintances said Hudson often carried a knife and that Anna had expressed discomfort around him.

A source familiar with the investigation said Anna’s younger brother reported hearing “yelling and a commotion” from inside the cabin while Anna and Hudson were alone. Believing the situation was minor, he later went to sleep under the assumption that Anna had left to meet family elsewhere on the ship.

Court filings revealed that Hudson was transported to a hospital immediately after the ship docked, though authorities have not stated why. Documents later confirmed that “a criminal case may be initiated against one of the minor children,” referring to Hudson. He is currently staying with a relative while the investigation continues.

Tensions within the family have been evident. Some relatives were reportedly told they could not attend Anna’s funeral due to the active investigation. Anna’s biological mother, Heather Wright, said she learned of her daughter’s death through an online search after being unable to reach family members or investigators.

Retired FBI Special Agent Jennifer Coffindaffer noted in an interview that federal investigators are expected to conduct an exhaustive review, stating that the shared cabin space and location where Anna was found present a clear opportunity for the crime.

Anna, affectionately known as “Anna Banana,” was described as joyful, energetic, and deeply loved by her community. A student at Temple Christian School in Titusville, she was active in cheerleading and sports and had dreamed of cheering for the Georgia Bulldogs.

The FBI continues to analyze extensive surveillance footage and gather statements from passengers and crew members. No arrests have been made, and the investigation remains open as authorities await final autopsy results and continue to assess forensic evidence.