Anna Kepner, an 18-year-old cheerleader from Titusville, Florida, who was found dead on a Carnival cruise in early November, died from asphyxiation caused by a bar wrench, according to a source familiar with the investigation and cited by ABC News.

Investigators reportedly detected two bruises on the side of her neck, which would support the cause of death.

of death.

The young woman was found dead on November 8 aboard the Carnival Horizon cruise ship, wrapped in a blanket and covered with life jackets, under a bed, according to a security source linked to the case.

No evidence of sexual assault or substances

The source consulted indicated that preliminary analyzes show no signs of sexual assault, nor traces of drugs or alcohol in Kepner's system.

However, the full autopsy and toxicology reports are still pending, so these conclusions could be confirmed or modified in the coming weeks.

The FBI remains silent

The FBI has avoided making official statements, claiming that the investigation is ongoing.

Similarly, the Miami-Dade Medical Examiner's Office declined to comment on the progress or findings of the case.

A stepbrother could face charges

Court documents from Family members reveal that Anna Kepner's stepbrother is a possible suspect, although not formal charges have been filed.

The young woman's stepmother, Shauntel Hudson, asked to postpone a custody hearing, claiming that one of her minor children could face criminal charges stemming from the investigation into Kepner's death.

A tragedy at sea

So far, no details have been revealed about the context or immediate circumstances surrounding the young woman's death on the cruise ship.

Authorities continue to gather evidence and take statements, while the family faces the tragedy that occurred during a vacation that turned fatal.