A Florida teenager has been charged with murder and sexual assault in the death of his stepsister, Anna Kepner, aboard a Carnival cruise ship, according to multiple reports. Federal charges were filed against the suspect following an investigation into the incident, which occurred while the family was aboard the vessel.

Authorities allege the teenager sexually assaulted and killed Kepner during the cruise. The case falls under federal maritime jurisdiction, which governs crimes committed on vessels in international waters, subjecting the suspect to federal prosecution.

Carnival Cruise Line has not been accused of wrongdoing in the case. The incident has nonetheless raised broader questions about safety protocols and response procedures aboard commercial cruise ships when violent crimes are alleged.

The suspect, whose age has been reported but whose name has been withheld by some outlets given his status as a minor, faces serious federal charges that carry severe potential penalties. The case is being prosecuted federally due to the maritime jurisdiction involved.