EXCLUSIVE: MOTHER OF CRUISE SHIP VICTIM TELLS “INSIDE EDITION” SHE ATTENDED HER DAUGHTER’S FUNERAL IN DISGUISE

Click HERE to Watch, Interview Airs Thursday, November 20 on INSIDE EDITION

(Must Link & Credit INSIDE EDITION)

November 20, 2025 – INSIDE EDITION has uncovered new details surrounding the death of 18-year-old Anna Kepner, who passed away unexpectedly while on a cruise earlier this month.

In an exclusive interview airing tonight, Anna’s biological mother, Heather Kepner, said she was instructed not to attend her daughter’s funeral today in Titusville, Florida, due to long-standing family tensions. Kepner revealed to INSIDE EDITION that she was determined to say goodbye and attend the service in disguise.

“I’m going to wear a disguise, I’m going to put a wig on and wear some really tall shoes because I’m 4 ft. 9,” Kepner said.

INSIDE EDITION also spoke with father of Anna’s ex-boyfriend, Joshua, who said his son witnessed a troubling moment during a FaceTime call. According to the father, Steve Westin, his son told him, “I tried to tell her parents that this was happening, but they didn’t want to believe me.”

“He saw her stepbrother come into the room when she was sleeping and get on top of her,” said Westin. “He's infatuated, attracted to her like crazy. He's always wanted to date her.”

Tune in to INSIDE EDITION Thursday, November 20 for the full report.

Check local listings for times and stations in your area at www.insideedition.com.

###

INSIDE EDITION is produced daily by Inside Edition Inc. and distributed by CBS Media Ventures.  

Follow INSIDE EDITION on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.