MIAMI — The parents of a 16-year-old boy now considered a suspect in the death of his 18-year-old stepsister, Anna Kepner, appeared before a Brevard County judge this week as they fight over custody of their two younger children.

The hearing comes as the FBI continues investigating Anna’s death, after her body was found aboard a Carnival cruise ship in November.

According to documents obtained by Local 10 News, the teen’s stepbrother — who was traveling on the cruise with her — has been identified as a suspect in the case. Relatives say investigators informed them Anna died from asphyxiation, though no charges have been filed.

In court, Anna’s stepmother, Shauntel Kepner, sought to retain custody of her 9- and 16-year-old biological children. Her ex-husband, Thomas Hudson, argued the children were at risk of abandonment and neglect if left in their mother’s care.

Kepner denied the allegations, telling the court her 16-year-old son is staying with a relative while she cares for her 9-year-old daughter at home.

The judge ultimately rejected Hudson’s request for emergency temporary custody.

A follow-up hearing is scheduled for Dec. 17 in Central Florida.

The FBI continues to investigate Anna Kepner’s death aboard the cruise ship.

FBI probe into cruise ship death entangles family in custody battle

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