Texas Jury Sentences FedEx Driver to Death for Abduction and Murder of 7-Year-Old
A Texas jury has condemned FedEx driver Tanner Horner to death by lethal injection for the abduction and killing of 7-year-old Athena Strand. Horner confessed to kidnapping Athena outside her home, then strangling her as he drove away in his delivery truck. Courtroom testimony revealed harrowing evidence, including audio recordings, surveillance footage and forensic analysis. Jurors broke down as they heard how Horner silenced Athena while a Christmas carol played from the truck radio. During sentencing, Athena’s uncle addressed Horner directly, vowing that Athena’s name would outlive her killer’s. Athena’s mother, with her hair dyed pink in her daughter’s honor, also attended the hearing and wiped away tears. Under Texas law, the death sentence is automatically appealed. Prosecutors argued Horner’s actions were cold and calculated, pointing to past sexual assault allegations as part of their case.
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