FORT WORTH, Texas (AP) — A former FedEx delivery driver has pleaded guilty to capital murder in the killing of 7-year-old Athena Strand, a case that shocked North Texas and is now moving into the sentencing phase, where jurors will decide whether he will face the death penalty or life in prison without parole.
Tanner Horner entered the guilty plea Tuesday, just as his trial was set to begin in Tarrant County. The plea immediately shifted proceedings past the guilt phase and into a punishment phase expected to include graphic and emotional testimony.
Authorities say the killing occurred on Nov. 30, 2022, in the rural community of Paradise, near Fort Worth. Horner, who was working as a contract delivery driver for FedEx, had just dropped off a package at Athena’s home — a Christmas gift intended for the child.
According to AP News, Horner later abducted the girl from outside her home. He initially claimed he accidentally struck her with his delivery vehicle and panicked. However, prosecutors say evidence contradicts that account and indicates Athena was not seriously injured when she was taken.
Instead, authorities allege Horner kidnapped the child, threatened her to remain quiet, and ultimately strangled her inside his delivery truck.
Athena Strand was reported missing by her family the same day she disappeared. A widespread search ended two days later when her body was found several miles from her home.
Investigators tied Horner to the crime using a combination of digital tracking data and forensic evidence. Prosecutors say DNA evidence linked him to the killing, and video from inside the delivery truck showed Athena alive after the abduction.
During opening statements, prosecutors described the case as particularly disturbing, warning jurors they would hear graphic evidence, including audio recorded inside the vehicle.
Horner’s unexpected guilty plea brought a swift end to what would have been a closely watched trial. Despite the plea, jurors will still hear evidence to determine his sentence under Texas law, which mandates either execution or life imprisonment without parole for capital murder convictions.
Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty, emphasizing the severity of the crime and the victim’s age. Meanwhile, defense attorneys have pointed to Horner’s mental health history, including claims that he is on the autism spectrum, as grounds for a life sentence instead.
The killing of Athena Strand drew widespread attention and grief across North Texas, with community members holding memorials and calling for stronger safety measures. The case has also raised questions about delivery driver screening and child safety in residential areas.
As the sentencing phase continues, Athena’s family is expected to provide emotional testimony about the loss of the young girl, who relatives say loved the outdoors and was excited about the holiday season.
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