Photo of Athena Grand, 7, Moments Before Death Unveiled Amid FedEx Driver Plea
A Fort Worth courtroom revealed new evidence after 34-year-old Tanner Horner entered guilty pleas in the death of a child. Horner admitted to capital murder of a child under 10 and aggravated kidnapping in the November 30, 2022 case.
Courtroom revelation
Prosecutors showed a black-and-white image taken from inside a delivery van. The photo depicted Athena Strand, 7, alive and positioned behind the driver’s seat on the day she vanished.
A photo of Athena, 7, moments before death was unveiled amid the FedEx driver plea. Jurors were told the image contradicts Horner’s earlier account of the encounter.
Charges and legal process
Horner pleaded guilty as his trial was scheduled to begin. Because he admitted guilt to capital murder, jurors will now decide punishment.
They must choose between death and life in prison without parole. Judge George Gallagher instructed the panel to weigh the evidence and determine the sentence.
Prosecutors’ account
Wise County District Attorney James Stainton told jurors investigators found footage from the van. Prosecutors say the video captured Horner driving calmly while Athena appeared terrified.
The charging documents say Horner first claimed an accidental collision outside her father’s house in Paradise, Texas. Authorities say he later strangled the child in the truck and dumped her body in the Trinity River roughly ten miles from the home.
Investigation and evidence
Police traced Horner after discovering a delivery he made to the family shortly before the girl disappeared. The package reportedly contained a set of “You Can Be Anything” Barbie dolls meant as a Christmas gift.
Investigators say Horner led them to Athena’s body two days after her stepmother reported her missing. Prosecutors plan to present audio and in-cab footage as part of their case.
Victim and defendant details
The child weighed about 67 pounds at the time of her death. Prosecutors described Horner as a roughly 250-pound man during their courtroom remarks.
Authorities allege Horner attempted to break the girl’s neck before strangling her with his hands. He is accused of covering the in-cab camera, though footage was recovered.
What comes next
The jury will hear testimony and review evidence during the penalty phase. Their decision will determine whether Horner faces execution or life without parole.
Filmogaz.com will continue to follow the proceedings and report developments as the case moves forward.
