Who is Anna Kepner? Florida Teen Dies Aboard Carnival Horizon Cruise Ship

Tragic news surfaced as 18-year-old Anna Kepner from Titusville, Florida, was reported dead aboard the Carnival Horizon cruise ship on Saturday. The young student, who attended Titusville High School, was traveling with her family on a cruise from Miami to the Caribbean when the incident occurred.

Cruise Returns to Miami After Tragedy

According to ABC News, the ship returned to Miami on Saturday after the death was reported. Federal agents and medical personnel boarded the vessel to begin an investigation. Authorities have not yet released the official cause of death.

Anna’s family described her as a bright and cheerful soul who brought joy to everyone around her. Speaking to reporters, her family said: “When she walked into a room, she would light it up. If you were sad, she’d make you laugh. She was the funniest little person in school.”

A Bright Future Cut Short

Anna Kepner was set to graduate in May 2026 and had recently finished testing to join the U.S. military. She had been in touch with recruiters to discuss her future career.

She was also an active member of her school’s varsity cheerleading team and started gymnastics at the age of two. Known affectionately as “Anna Banana,” she held both a boater’s license and scuba diving certification, reflecting her love for the water and adventure.

Her family said, “She was the best child you could ever meet. We’ll always remember her for who she was.”

Tributes Pour In for the Teenager

Friends, classmates, and community members in Titusville have expressed their grief and shared tributes online. Anna’s loved ones described her as someone who loved makeup, shopping, and spending time with her friends.

Aqua-Mart Aquariums, a Florida-based aquatic pet store, also remembered Anna in an emotional social media post. The store revealed she was the granddaughter of one of their retired employees and had worked with them before their recent relocation.

Their heartfelt statement read: “Anna worked tirelessly alongside us during our move. Even after everything was done, she stayed to make sure it was perfect. Rest easy, Anna. You’ll always be part of the Aqua-Mart family.” 💙🐠

Carnival Cruise Line Issues Statement

Carnival Cruise Line confirmed Anna Kepner’s death in a public statement and assured full cooperation with law enforcement.

“Our focus is on supporting the family of our guest and cooperating with the FBI,” the company said.

As of now, the FBI continues to investigate the case to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the teenager’s untimely death.