Officials have confirmed that the death of Florida teen Anna Kepner aboard the Carnival Horizon is now being investigated as a homicide, marking a major turning point in the high profile cruise ship tragedy.
The revelation comes from a newly issued death certificate provided to ABC 6 News by her family. The document states that Kepner died from “mechanical asphyxia” and notes that she “was mechanically asphyxiated by other person(s).” The date of injury is listed as November 6, though the time remains unknown. Autopsy and toxicology results have not yet been released, and the Miami Dade medical examiner has declined to comment. The FBI has not responded to requests for updates.
Kepner was found dead while vacationing on the Carnival Horizon with her grandparents, father, stepmother, siblings and stepsiblings. According to a security source briefed on the investigation, she was discovered under a bed, wrapped in a blanket and covered with life vests.
Her family previously told ABC News that investigators said she appeared to have died from asphyxiation, possibly caused by a bar hold described as an arm across the neck.
Loved ones remember the Florida teen as a bright and joyful student who excelled in school and had a promising future ahead. “Happy, bubbly, straight A student” is how they described her life and spirit.
A separate family court filing noted that Kepner’s stepbrother, who is a minor, could face charges related to the case.
