Authorities allege the 16-year-old stepbrother killed Anna Kepner during a family cruise, with the case now proceeding under adult charges.
A US federal case involving the death of teenager Anna Kepner aboard a cruise ship has taken a significant turn after authorities charged her 16-year-old stepbrother with murder and aggravated sexual abuse.
The accused, identified as Timothy Hudson, is alleged to have killed Kepner during a family trip on the Carnival Horizon in November. According to investigators, Kepner’s body was discovered concealed under a bed in a cabin she shared with two other teenagers, including Hudson.
Officials said the cause of death was mechanical asphyxia, indicating her breathing was obstructed through physical force. Details of the case surfaced after court documents were unsealed, following a judicial decision allowing the suspect to be prosecuted as an adult.
Hudson was initially charged in February and later indicted on March 10, according to the US Justice Department. He has pleaded not guilty and is currently under electronic monitoring while residing with a relative, a decision prosecutors are contesting, citing potential risk.
Kepner’s father described the situation as deeply painful, expressing concern over the suspect not being in custody while placing trust in the legal system.
US Attorney Jason Reding Quiñones emphasized the seriousness of the charges, noting they involve alleged crimes committed aboard a vessel in international waters. Federal prosecution of minors remains rare, adding further attention to the case.
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