Ex-FedEx Driver Admits to Killing 7-Year-Old Girl in Texas Delivery Incident

A tragic case has emerged from Fort Worth, Texas, where former FedEx driver Tanner Horner admitted to killing seven-year-old Athena Strand. This incident occurred in December 2022 after delivering a Christmas gift to her home in Paradise, Texas.

The Incident: A Gruesome Admission

Tanner Horner pled guilty and described a horrific sequence of events. He claimed he accidentally hit Athena with his delivery van. In a panic, he then contended that he strangled her to prevent her from disclosing the incident to her father. However, Wise County District Attorney James Stainton argued that Horner’s narrative is filled with inconsistencies and lies.

Evidence of a Crime

During the trial, Stainton shared poignant details, including a video showing Athena alive inside the delivery truck. The young girl was captured sitting behind the driver’s seat before the tragic events unfolded. Stainton stated, “The first thing Tanner Horner says to Athena when he picks her up and puts her in that truck, he leans down and he says: ‘Don’t scream or I’ll hurt you,’” emphasizing the premeditation of Horner’s actions.

Trial Proceedings

As the trial progressed, jurors were informed about the brutal nature of the crime. Stainton illustrated the physical disparity between Horner, who weighs 250 pounds, and Athena, who weighed only 67 pounds. This stark contrast underscored the violent actions that occurred.

• Horner’s DNA was found under Athena’s fingernails, indicating a struggle.
• His DNA was also discovered in inappropriate places on her body.

Pleading for Compassion

Horner’s attorney, Steven Goble, acknowledged the overwhelming evidence against his client but attempted to appeal for leniency. He highlighted Horner’s troubled past, including maternal substance abuse during pregnancy and various mental health issues. Goble suggested that these factors contributed to Horner’s actions.

A Heartbreaking Gift

Ashley Strand, Athena’s stepmother, narrated the bittersweet context of the package Horner delivered. It was a Christmas present—a box of “You Can Be Anything” Barbies meant for the young girl. Strand shared memories of Athena joyfully exploring their rural property.

Legal Consequences

Tanner Horner now faces severe consequences. He could be sentenced to life in prison or receive the death penalty. The jury’s decision will determine the outcome of this tragic case that has deeply affected the local community.

The trial was relocated to Fort Worth to ensure a fair trial for Horner, following concerns raised by his defense team about potential biases in Wise County.

This case serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the consequences of violent actions.