Shauntel Hudson Kepner, the stepmother of 18-year-old Anna Kepner and mother of the 16-year-old stepbrother under scrutiny in her death, testified in a Brevard County family court hearing on December 5, describing the blended family’s close relationships while addressing ongoing safety concerns amid a federal probe.
The emergency custody hearing stemmed from a motion filed by Shauntel’s ex-husband, Thomas Hudson, seeking temporary primary custody of their 9-year-old daughter. Thomas expressed worries about the child’s well-being in the household shared with Shauntel and her current husband, Christopher Kepner – Anna’s father – citing the circumstances surrounding Anna’s death on the Carnival Horizon cruise in early November.
Judge Michelle Pruitt Studstill ultimately denied the emergency petition, finding no imminent danger to the youngest child, particularly since the 16-year-old stepbrother has been living with a maternal relative since the family’s return from the cruise. Shauntel’s attorney noted uncertainty about the teen’s future placement, pending FBI developments, including test results.
During testimony, Shauntel portrayed the three older teens – Anna, her 14-year-old half-brother, and the 16-year-old stepbrother – as exceptionally close. “They were like the three amigos,” she said, explaining the decision to have them share a cabin on the ship. The room was directly across the hall from the one she shared with Christopher and younger children, allowing easy oversight. Grandparents Jeffrey and Barbara Kepner occupied a cabin two floors above and assisted with supervision.
Shauntel recounted the final evening on November 6, when the family dined together and the teens retired early. Adults did not check on them later that night. Housekeeping discovered Anna’s body the next morning, concealed under a bed, wrapped in a blanket and covered with life vests. The death was ruled a homicide by mechanical asphyxia involving another person.
Shauntel’s lawyer, Millicent Athanason, acknowledged the gravity of the FBI investigation during the hearing. “We are not sure what the FBI are going to do, whether he’s going to be charged federally or whether it’s going to be turned over to the state,” Athanason stated. “They are also waiting on some testing results.” No charges have been filed, and the bureau has not publicly named suspects.
Thomas Hudson testified about limited contact with his children in recent years and alleged interference during custody exchanges. He denied certain claims but focused on his daughter’s safety. An adult son from the previous marriage also appeared, providing context on family interactions.
The hearing highlighted the blended household’s formation. Shauntel moved to Titusville in April 2024 with her younger children to join Christopher and his three, including Anna. Prior court records from the Hudsons’ divorce reference challenges, though details remain limited.
Anna, a senior at Temple Christian Academy in Titusville, was remembered as an honor student, cheerleader, and aspiring military member with dreams of K-9 handling. Friends and family described her as outgoing and dedicated.
The cruise, departing Miami on November 2 for Caribbean ports, aimed to create new traditions for the extended group of nine, including grandparents. Activities proceeded normally until the tragic discovery on November 7.
Upon docking in Miami on November 8, the 16-year-old stepbrother received brief psychiatric evaluation before release to relatives. Christopher and Shauntel decided on the relocation to prioritize other children’s security.
Surveillance footage reportedly showed the stepbrother as the primary individual entering and exiting the shared cabin during relevant times. Toxicology indicated no contributing substances in Anna’s system.
Legal analysts note jurisdictional complexities for cruise incidents in international waters, often federal. The FBI continues reviewing evidence, including electronics and interviews.
Community support in Titusville remains strong, with memorials emphasizing Anna’s positive impact. Scholarships in her name aid local youth.
The custody case has additional dates, including December 17. Christopher Kepner was previously subpoenaed but did not testify at this session.
Blended families face unique adjustments, experts say, with communication key during transitions. This case illustrates rare intersections of personal loss and legal proceedings.
As holidays approach, the Kepner and Hudson families navigate grief and uncertainty. Tributes focus on Anna’s legacy of kindness and ambition.
Authorities maintain the investigation’s integrity, urging public patience.
The courtroom exchanges offered glimpses into daily life while underscoring unresolved questions about the fatal night.
For those affected, closure remains elusive amid layered proceedings.
