FBI Investigates Mysterious Cruise Ship Death

On November 7, 2025, the body of Anna Kepner, an 18-year-old high school cheerleader from Florida, was discovered by a room steward aboard the Carnival Horizon cruise ship. The discovery was made in her cabin while the ship was at sea. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has taken the lead on the case.

Story Highlights

Anna Kepner’s body was found wrapped and concealed beneath the bed in her cabin.
The victim, traveling with her family, had reportedly returned to her cabin alone on November 6 after feeling unwell at dinner.
The FBI is actively investigating the circumstances of the death, reviewing surveillance footage, phone data, keycard records, and conducting interviews.
As of this report, no cause of death has been officially released, and no arrests have been made.
The Carnival Horizon resumed its next scheduled voyage on November 8, with the cruise line confirming its cooperation with federal authorities.

Discovery and Investigation Details

The discovery occurred at approximately 11 a.m. on November 7 after Ms. Kepner failed to appear for breakfast, prompting a search. The deliberate concealment of the body, which was wrapped in blankets and covered with life jackets, has been noted by investigators as an unusual factor in maritime death cases.

The FBI is the lead agency in the investigation, which is standard procedure for deaths involving U.S. nationals that occur in international waters. Authorities have not yet released an official cause of death or identified any suspects.

ACCIDENTS HAPPEN ON THESE SHIPS: The Father Of 18-Year-Old Cheerleader Anna Kepner, Who Was Found Dead On A Carnival Cruise Ship, Says He Still Has No Idea How His Daughter Died. @VucciLawGroup Joined F&F First This Morning To Discuss The Investigation. pic.twitter.com/X3ynnrllCd

— Fox & Friends First (@FoxFriendsFirst) November 14, 2025

Family and Authority Communication

The victim’s family has publicly expressed frustration regarding the minimal information provided by federal investigators in the weeks following the incident. This lack of communication highlights the difficulties families face in obtaining answers during complex investigations involving international maritime jurisdiction.

Cruise Line Response

Carnival Cruise Line confirmed the death and stated it is cooperating fully with the FBI. Following the discovery, the company permitted the Carnival Horizon to depart for its next scheduled itinerary on November 8, cordoning off the section of the deck related to the investigation. The cruise line’s decision to maintain its operational schedule while the investigation was ongoing has been a point of discussion regarding industry protocols for handling serious incidents at sea.

Watch the report: Report: Teen’s Body Allegedly Found Stuffed Under Cruise Ship Bed