Family in Shock After Florida Cheerleader’s Death on Cruise

A Florida family long divided by distance now faces a tragedy too heavy to bear alone. Eighteen-year-old Anna Kepner’s sudden death aboard the Carnival Horizon has left her loved ones grappling with grief, unanswered questions, and a family rift they can no longer ignore.

Authorities are still investigating the circumstances of Anna’s death. Meanwhile, her parents, Christopher Kepner and Heather Wright, have begun sharing conflicting accounts about what happened on the ship and who may be responsible.

Discovery and Ongoing Investigation

Anna was found dead under a bed on November 7, 2025, just a day after having dinner with her family, her father told People. The teen’s death certificate lists her cause of death as “mechanically asphyxiated by other person(s).” The FBI is actively investigating.

Estranged Mother Speaks Out

Heather Wright, who divorced Christopher when Anna was four, described a long period of being distanced from her daughter’s life. She moved to Oklahoma but was gradually pushed out, even excluded from Anna’s online obituary until it was later edited.

Heather told Fox News Digital that she was barred from the memorial service and accused Christopher of threatening legal action over old child-support issues if she attended. She said the grief has left her struggling to function but emphasized her enduring love for Anna.

She partly blamed her ex-husband, stating, “He put them in the same room together.” On TikTok (@justmom1984), she responded to public criticism, insisting she would ignore judgmental comments. Supporters flooded the post with messages backing her, reminding her that she did not put Anna in danger.

Father Addresses Stepson’s Involvement

Christopher Kepner confirmed that court filings show his 16-year-old stepson is under examination by the FBI in connection with Anna’s death. He said he last saw Anna at the family dinner on November 6. The next day, a housekeeper discovered her body under a bed.

Christopher said, “I do not stand behind what my stepson has done. I want him to face the consequences. I will fight to make sure that happens.”

He added, “I cannot say he is responsible, but I can’t rule it out. He was the only one in the room. The FBI will determine the evidence.”

Family Tensions Spill Into Public

As federal authorities investigate, tensions between Anna’s parents are now public. Heather blames Christopher, while he points to his stepson as potentially facing consequences. Their conflict underscores long-standing strains within the blended family.

Troubled Family Dynamics

Anna’s ex-boyfriend, Joshua Westin, described a chilling incident where he saw the stepson enter Anna’s bedroom during a late-night FaceTime call. Joshua said the stepson tried to climb onto Anna, but fled when confronted. Anna reportedly never told her family out of fear.

Joshua said Anna often felt uneasy around her stepfamily, as her father’s partner, Shauntel, had only been in her life for about a year. Anna also confided that Shauntel “doesn’t really like her” and was controlling.

Stephen Westin, Joshua’s father, said the teen stepson was obsessed with Anna and tried to raise concerns with her family, but they were ignored. The stepson could face criminal charges, though his identity remains protected due to his age.

Custody Disputes Add Complexity

Court filings reveal more family strife. Shauntel and her ex-husband, Thomas Hudson, were engaged in a custody battle. Shauntel alleged Thomas abused their two youngest children, including the 16-year-old stepson at the center of the FBI probe.

Christopher, Shauntel, Anna, and Shauntel’s children boarded the cruise on November 2. Less than a week later, tragedy struck.

A Family Confronts Pain and Uncertainty

The FBI investigation continues, leaving unresolved questions and fractured relationships. Until authorities determine what happened in the cabin, Anna’s loved ones face their own versions of the truth. Her death has revealed deep family fractures and a painful reality that may never fully heal.