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 fatherβs 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 Hornerβs van. According to prosecutor James Stainton, Hornerβs first words to Athena were: βDonβt scream or Iβll hurt you.β Jurors were warned about the graphic nature of the case, as officials described repeated lies during the investigationβexcept for Hornerβs admission to the killing. Forensic evidence, including his DNA under Athenaβs fingernails, suggests she fought back fiercely during the attack.
Athenaβs body was later found about 13 miles away near the Trinity River. While Hornerβs defense is not contesting his guilt, they are focusing on sentencing, arguing for leniency by citing his mental health issues, including Aspergerβs, 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.