A chilling new detail has emerged in the murder case of seven-year-old Athena Strand, highlighting the terrifying reality of her final moments. Tanner Horner, 34, has pleaded guilty to capital murder and aggravated kidnapping after abducting Athena from her father’s home in Texas while delivering a package. He claimed he panicked after accidentally backing into her, though prosecutors say she was not seriously injured, making his actions a deliberate choice.
Prosecutors are now focusing on disturbing evidence, including audio recorded inside Horner’s van. According to prosecutor James Stainton, Horner’s first words to Athena were: “Don’t scream or I’ll hurt you.” Jurors were warned about the graphic nature of the case, as officials described repeated lies during the investigation—except for Horner’s admission to the killing. Forensic evidence, including his DNA under Athena’s fingernails, suggests she fought back fiercely during the attack.
Athena’s body was later found about 13 miles away near the Trinity River. While Horner’s defense is not contesting his guilt, they are focusing on sentencing, arguing for leniency by citing his mental health issues, including Asperger’s, prenatal alcohol exposure, and lead exposure during childhood. The case now moves forward as jurors decide whether he will face the death penalty or life imprisonment.