Tanner Lynn Horner was sentenced to death for the brutal murder of 7-year-old Athena Strand. This decision came after he pleaded guilty just before his trial began.
Athena disappeared from her home on November 30, 2022. Horner, a former FedEx driver, delivered a package to her home on that day. He later confessed to taking her and admitted that she was dead.
During the trial, which started on April 7, 2026, Horner claimed he accidentally hit Athena with his van and panicked. He then confessed to strangling her in the back of his delivery van.
The jury deliberated for less than three hours before deciding on the death penalty. They heard testimonies regarding Horner’s mental health issues, including diagnoses of bipolar I disorder and generalized anxiety disorder.
Horner’s family history includes allegations of childhood sexual assault. His troubled upbringing raised questions during the trial about his mental health evaluation.
After leading police to where Athena’s body was found—approximately 15 miles away—Horner faced charges of aggravated kidnapping and capital murder for a victim under ten years old.
The case has sparked outrage and grief in the community. Jacob Strand, Athena’s father, expressed hope that justice would be served. Meanwhile, Horner’s grandmother stated that the family prays for him every day.
