Anna Kepner: Stepbrother Indicted on Alleged Sexual Abuse and Murder

A federal grand jury on April 13 indicted Anna Kepner's 16-year-old stepbrother on charges of murder and aggravated sexual abuse; he will be tried as an adult in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida.

Anna Kepner died while on a family cruise in November 2025 and her death was later investigated by federal authorities. Local reports indicate the death was classified as a homicide. On April 13, a federal grand jury returned an indictment in the case. The indictment names a 16-year-old stepsibling and the matter will proceed in federal court. What is known: - Anna Kepner was found dead aboard a Carnival cruise ship in early November 2025, and authorities treated the matter as a homicide. - On April 13, a federal grand jury indicted her 16-year-old stepbrother, identified in filings as T.H., on charges of murder and aggravated sexual abuse. - Federal prosecutors stated the alleged conduct occurred on or about Nov. 6–7, 2025, and the case will be handled in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida. - Although the accused is a minor, he will be tried as an adult; court records show he previously appeared in federal court and was released into the custody of a family member. Summary: The indictment moves the matter from investigation to federal prosecution and establishes formal criminal charges. Public reporting notes the family relationship and the emotional impact reported by relatives. Undetermined at this time.