Accused killer of 7-year-old Athena Strand indicted for capital murder
The Wise County sheriff said he would push for the death penalty.
A former FedEx driver accused of kidnapping and killing 7-year-old Athena Strand was indicted by a Wise County grand jury on Thursday, February 16. Tanner Horner, 31, was indicted for aggravated kidnapping and capital murder of a person under the age of 10, Wise County Sheriff Lane Akin confirmed to WFAA.
Horner confessed to abducting and killing Athena while working as a contract FedEx delivery driver. Athena went missing from her father’s home in the North Texas town of Paradise on November 30, after an argument with her stepmother, the Wise County Sheriff’s Office said.
According to officials, Horner said he strangled Athena after accidentally hitting her with his van. Horner told investigators that Athena wasn’t seriously hurt after he hit her while backing up, but he panicked and put her in his van. Her body was found December 2, after her body was missing for several days.
Athena Strand, 7, is seen here wearing a light purple dress and a pink backpack.
Courtesy of Wise County Sheriff’s Office
Maitlyn Gandy, Athena’s mother, released a statement about the indictment, saying the entire process of hearing about her daughter’s kidnapping and murder was “undoubtedly very difficult.”
“Tanner Horner’s indictment is the beginning of a long road through the justice system. I appreciate everyone’s continued support and for keeping Athena’s name and memory alive. Please take a moment to hug your children and loved ones. No one is promised another day,” she stated.
No trial date has been set for Horner in Wise County. The sheriff previously said he’ll push for the death penalty in this case.
