A 16-year-old boy faces murder and aggravated sexual abuse charges after the death of his 18-year-old stepsister, discovered hidden under a bed on a family cruise ship.

Details of the Incident

Anna Kepner, a high school cheerleader from Temple Christian School in Titusville, Florida, traveled on the Carnival Horizon in November. Before the ship returned to Florida, crew members found her body stuffed under a bed in a cabin shared with two other teenagers, including her stepbrother Timothy Hudson.

The medical examiner determined the cause of death on November 6 as mechanical asphyxia, where physical force or an object prevents breathing.

Legal Proceedings

Hudson initially faced juvenile charges, but U.S. District Judge Beth Bloom ruled for adult prosecution. The case proceeds in federal court due to the incident occurring in international waters.

In February, Hudson appeared in Miami court wearing a ball cap and hoodie. He received an electronic tether while staying with an uncle, later modified to permit temporary work with his father at a landscaping business.

Family Response

Chris Kepner, Anna’s father and Hudson’s stepfather, emphasizes the need for justice. “Justice needs to be served,” Kepner stated. “That is where the family stands.” He added that Hudson should remain in custody.

Kepner described the loss as “a pain that will never fully heal” and stressed accountability. “Our daughter’s life matters, and we will continue to speak out to honor her, to seek accountability, and to ensure that her case is not forgotten,” he said.

Remembering Anna Kepner

Kepner dreamed of cheerleading at the University of Georgia. Friends and family recall her as a bubbly, outgoing senior who loved her siblings deeply. At her November memorial, attendees wore bright colors to celebrate her vibrant spirit.