Executive Summary
- Anna Kepner, an 18-year-old student from Titusville, Florida, died while on a Carnival Horizon cruise ship.
- The FBI has confirmed it is leading the investigation into the circumstances of her death.
- Officials have not released the cause of death or further details regarding the ongoing investigation.
- Friends and the school community are mourning Kepner, remembering her as a joyful and kind person.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is leading an inquiry into the death of an 18-year-old student from Titusville, Florida, who died over the weekend while on a Carnival cruise. The passenger, identified as Anna Kepner, was a student at Temple Christian School.
In a statement, Carnival Cruise Line confirmed that its Carnival Horizon ship returned to PortMiami on Saturday morning, November 8, 2025, following the death of a passenger. Both Carnival and the FBI have confirmed the investigation, but officials have released few details regarding the circumstances surrounding Kepner’s death. Her cause of death has not been made public at this time.
Friends and classmates are mourning the loss of Kepner, who was described by her best friend, Genevieve Guerrero, as “the definition of joyful, bubbly, and always looking out for others.” Guerrero told reporters she was in shock after learning of her friend’s passing while on the cruise.
“When I went around Anna, everything was good vibes,” Guerrero said. “She kept me on track. She would make me happy.”
The Temple Christian School community gathered on Monday to remember Kepner. In a social media post, School Administrator Andrea Stone thanked those who came out to support the family. Another post from a teacher remembered Kepner as a “bright, kind-hearted young woman whose presence brought warmth and energy into the classroom.”
Investigation Continues
The FBI has not provided an update on its investigation. Authorities have not released any information regarding the cause or nature of the death aboard the vessel.