Teen's Stepbrother May Be Summoned to Testify in Cruise Death Case

A 16-year-old boy, being scrutinized in connection with his stepsister's demise aboard a Carnival cruise, might have to deliver testimony in person concerning this matter, according to his father's lawyer.

Attorney Scott Smith, who represents Thomas Hudson, the boy's father, disclosed at a custody proceeding in Florida that there's a possibility the teen will have to provide his account related to the incident, even if it's not ideal to involve him in the ongoing custody contention.

The boy's potential testimony relates to the custody dispute between Thomas Hudson and Shauntel Hudson regarding their children, which includes the teenager at the center of the investigation. This situation also involved Anna Kepner, Thomas's deceased stepdaughter, found on a cruise ship earlier this month. Her body had been discovered under a bed, raising questions that the teenager's testimony might help illuminate.

The teenage boy is currently under scrutiny by authorities who are investigating his potential involvement in the death of 18-year-old Kepner. While court documents imply that the FBI view him as a suspect, no official confirmation has been made, and FBI protocol restricts commentary on active cases.

Current Investigations and Legal Proceedings

As of now, the teen is recuperating at a family member's house on the west coast of Florida after being hospitalized when the cruise docked at Port Miami on November 8.

Shauntel Hudson's lawyer, Millicent Athanason, expressed reservations about placing the teenager on the stand, citing concerns that it might be incriminating. Nevertheless, a hearing has been scheduled by Judge Michelle Studstill to address the issue, although the minor is expected to assert his Fifth Amendment rights.

Set for December 5, the hearing will evaluate whether to compel the young witness to speak, with the possibility of involving both FBI and Florida’s Department of Children and Families agents, as well as other relevant testimonies, including from Kepner's biological father.

Incident Overview

Kepner was on a Caribbean holiday with family members, including her father, stepmother, siblings, and grandparents. Her body was found after she was reported missing from breakfast following a night where she had complained about feeling unwell.

Authorities continue to pore over surveillance footage, electronic door data, and cellphone records seeking evidence of who may have entered her room. Interviews are being conducted with guests and crew as well.

There are allegations of a disagreement between Kepner and her stepbrother the evening prior to her being found deceased, which remains a focal point of the investigation.