😱 SHOCKING: The baby-faced 16-year-old stepbrother – labeled a prime SUSPECT in the brutal cruise ship strangling of beautiful Florida cheerleader Anna Kepner – just broke cover in exclusive photos… and he’s acting like nothing happened!

While the FBI circles closer, weighing MURDER charges for asphyxiating his 18-year-old stepsister and stuffing her body under a bed, this teen is out in rural Florida selling firewood, tugging his cap down to hide his face when confronted.

What dark secret is he hiding? Was it a twisted obsession gone deadly on that family vacation? The family called them “just like brother and sister”… but ex-boyfriend claims paint a chilling picture.

You won’t believe these pics and the bombshell details emerging – tap to see the full story before it’s gone! 👇

In a stunning development in the ongoing investigation into the death of 18-year-old Florida cheerleader Anna Kepner aboard a Carnival Cruise Line ship, exclusive photographs obtained by the Daily Mail show her 16-year-old stepbrother — considered a key suspect by authorities — breaking cover for the first time since the incident.

The teenager, whose identity is protected due to his minor status and lack of formal charges, was spotted in rural Florida on December 12, reportedly selling firewood from a roadside stand near a relative’s home. Sources say he has been laying low at the property as federal investigators continue to weigh potential charges in connection with Kepner’s death.

Kepner, a straight-A student and aspiring Navy recruit from Titusville, was found dead on November 7 aboard the Carnival Horizon during a six-day Caribbean family vacation. The ship was en route from Mexico back to Miami when a crew member discovered her body wrapped in a blanket, covered with life jackets, and concealed under a bed in the cabin she shared with her 14-year-old half-brother and the 16-year-old stepbrother.

The Miami-Dade Medical Examiner’s Office ruled the death a homicide caused by mechanical asphyxiation, with preliminary reports suggesting it may have resulted from a bar hold — an arm pressed across the neck. A death certificate obtained by family members states Kepner “was mechanically asphyxiated by other person(s),” and bruises were noted on her neck. Toxicology results reportedly showed no drugs or alcohol in her system, and there were no initial signs of sexual assault.

The FBI, which has jurisdiction because the death occurred in international waters, has remained tight-lipped on the probe. However, court filings in an unrelated custody battle involving the stepbrother’s mother, Shauntel Hudson — who is married to Kepner’s father, Christopher Kepner — have repeatedly referenced the 16-year-old as a “suspect.” Hudson’s ex-husband, Thomas Hudson, has sought emergency custody of their younger child, citing concerns over the ongoing investigation.

Surveillance footage reviewed by investigators reportedly shows the stepbrother as the only person entering and exiting the cabin during critical hours, according to family statements to media outlets. Kepner’s grandparents, Jeffrey and Barbara Kepner, who were also on the cruise, told ABC News that authorities informed them the boy was the sole individual seen on camera in and out of the room.

The family vacation included Kepner’s father, stepmother Shauntel Hudson, her biological brother, the stepbrother, a younger stepsibling, and the grandparents. Described by some relatives as a close blended family with “no such thing as steps,” tensions have emerged in court documents and interviews suggesting underlying strains.

Kepner’s ex-boyfriend has publicly claimed the stepbrother exhibited obsessive behavior toward her prior to the cruise, alleging an incident where he attempted to climb on top of her during a FaceTime call months earlier. The aunt of Kepner, speaking to media, expressed that the teen felt uncomfortable in the home environment and was reluctant about the trip.

Following the discovery of Kepner’s body, the stepbrother was reportedly hospitalized for psychiatric evaluation upon the ship’s return to port. He has since been staying with relatives, away from the family home.

Carnival Cruise Line has stated it is fully cooperating with the FBI and emphasized there is no ongoing threat to passengers aboard the Horizon. The company reported the incident as required under federal law for crimes on cruise ships.

As of December 19, no charges have been filed against anyone in connection with Kepner’s death. The FBI’s Miami office has declined to provide updates, citing the active nature of the investigation.

The case has gripped national attention, with social media speculation running rampant and family members expressing heartbreak over the loss of the vibrant teen. A memorial service in Titusville drew hundreds, where mourners remembered Kepner for her infectious smile and bright future.

Investigators continue to analyze ship surveillance, electronic key card records, cellphone data, and conduct interviews with family, crew, and passengers. Sources indicate the probe is focusing on potential motives, including any prior altercations, though details remain scarce.

Kepner’s family has described her as an independent, “mighty” young woman excited about graduation and military service. Her grandparents have said they are struggling to comprehend the tragedy, having lost not just Anna but facing the possibility of further family fracture.

The emergence of the stepbrother in public comes amid heightened scrutiny, with federal authorities reportedly deciding whether to pursue charges at the federal level or defer to state prosecutors. Legal experts note that prosecuting a minor in such a case could involve complex considerations, including potential transfer to adult court depending on the severity.

This developing story highlights the challenges of investigating incidents at sea, where jurisdiction and evidence preservation can complicate matters. Carnival has faced previous scrutiny over onboard safety, though the company maintains robust security protocols.

As the holidays approach, Kepner’s loved ones continue to grieve, calling for justice while navigating the painful revelations from court proceedings and media reports.

The FBI urges anyone with information to contact its Miami field office. Carnival Cruise Line has reiterated its commitment to guest safety and cooperation with law enforcement.