Anna Kepner's dad speaks out as her stepbrother awaits trial in her cruise ship murder
Anna Kepner's father opened up to ABC News on the day that would have been her high school graduation as his stepson awaits trial for Anna Kepner's murder.
Anna Kepner, 18, was allegedly killed by her 16-year-old stepbrother during the family's November vacation on a Carnival Cruise ship, according to prosecutors.
Anna Kepner's father, Christopher Kepner, is married to the suspect's mother, Shauntel Kepner.
On Sunday, when Anna Kepner's name was called during the graduation ceremony for Temple Christian School in Titusville, Florida, Christopher Kepner accepted the diploma on her behalf. The 18-year-old had already earned the credits to graduate and was interested in joining the military, her family said.
Christopher Kepner, who was greeted with a standing ovation, was overcome with emotion in the moment, telling ABC News, "It was hard being in her place to do that, it's very hard."
"Seeing everybody honor her in their speeches, seeing the photos, doing all the things that she would have been doing right now," he said.
"But we made it through it and we're a little bit happier for it," he said.
The valedictorian, Josiah Ray El Aouar, talked about each of the 18 graduates, ending with Anna Kepner.
"My dear friend, Anna," he said. "I'm so heartbroken and distraught that I cannot say these words while looking into your eyes, just like I have done with the rest of my classmates. Anna was one of a kind. Someone who encouraged me in every possible way."
"I miss your smile, your sassiness and your ability to light up a room with your gentle and infectious laugh," he said. "I can keep going on and on about Anna, but I’m sure that each one of us here today that knew her could, too. She always had a positive impact on whomever she interacted with, and I am torn that she is not walking the stage with us.”
Christopher Kepner said he and Shauntel Kepner got a copy of Anna Kepner's yearbook.
"All the kids signed and we're looking forward to reading what they wrote," he said.
Christopher Kepner, who described his daughter as "wonderful, beautiful" and "outgoing," also thanked the school for letting him be a part of the day.
Christopher Kepner did not comment on the criminal case against his stepson.
Prosecutors allege Anna Kepner was "sexually assaulted and intentionally killed" by her 16-year-old stepbrother. She died from mechanical asphyxiation, officials said.
The stepbrother has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder and aggravated sexual abuse. He is set to go on trial in September.
