In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through investigators, forensic officials have revealed that Anna Kepner’s half-brother was discovered inside a public restroom attempting to erase “unknown biological traces” from his clothing just hours after Anna’s disappearance.
The announcement, made late Tuesday evening, is being described by detectives as “a critical turning point” in one of the most baffling cases of the year.
A Disturbing Discovery in a Locked Stall
According to police, officers were called to a petrol station restroom after staff reported “unusual noises” and a person refusing to leave a locked stall for more than 20 minutes. When officers forced the door open, they found the 24-year-old half-brother scrubbing his shirt in the sink, his hands shaking and his clothes soaked.
Forensics later confirmed that the shirt contained the same unidentified biological traces previously detected on Anna’s train seat, hours before she vanished.
Investigators say the probability of coincidence is “virtually zero.”
He Was Trying to Destroy Evidence, Officials Claim
Senior forensic analysts stated that the pattern of cleaning showed a deliberate attempt to erase stains, fibres and residue before the shirt could be examined. The sink surface also tested positive for diluted traces matching those found on the shirt.
One investigator briefed on the findings said:
“The intention to remove forensic material is undeniable. He knew exactly what he was trying to get rid of.”
Behaviour Raises New Suspicions
Detectives now believe the half-brother’s behaviour may have occurred moments after he left the area where Anna was last seen, radically tightening the timeline.
Witnesses also reported seeing him throw something into a bin outside the station shortly before police arrived. The item has not been recovered.
Family ‘Devastated’ by Revelation
Relatives of Anna are said to be in “complete disbelief,” with one family member describing the news as “a nightmare we didn’t think could get worse.” Authorities are urging the public not to speculate as the investigation continues.
The Case Takes a Darker Turn
Detectives are now reexamining every moment of the half-brother’s last 24 hours with Anna, including:
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A reported argument the night before
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A mysterious phone call he received minutes before leaving home
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The unidentified trace substance appearing both on his shirt and Anna’s seat
Police say they expect more revelations in the next 48 hours, depending on laboratory results currently being expedited.
