Athena Strand: Christmas present horror: Former FedEx driver pleads responsible to killing 7-year-old Athena Strand in Texas
Athena Strand was solely seven years previous when she went lacking from her residence in Clever County, Texas, on November 30, 2022. Two days later, she was discovered lifeless. She had been staying together with her dad and stepmom and was simply taking part in close to her home when the incident occurred.Based on the authorities, former FedEx driver Tanner Horner, who was delivering Christmas packages to Athena’s residence, allegedly struck the lady along with his van. Panicking, he positioned her in his automobile, and, in line with prosecutors, finally strangled her behind the truck. The tragic irony: Athena had simply obtained a field of “You Can Be Something” Barbies, a present meant to encourage her goals.
Investigation and arrest
Horner, a contract driver for Topspin delivering for FedEx, was arrested days after Athena went lacking. Court docket paperwork reveal that he confessed to the homicide and led authorities to the situation the place her physique was found, close to a river about 9 miles from her residence. He was charged with capital homicide, aggravated kidnapping, and extra sexual assault counts, although the total scope of these costs stays underneath investigation.
Trial opens with stunning particulars
Throughout opening statements, Clever County District Lawyer James Stainton referred to as Horner’s story “an online of lies,” saying the one fact he informed was that he killed Athena. Prosecutors additionally introduced video proof displaying Athena alive behind Horner’s truck, contradicting his claims that he panicked after an unintentional strike.
Household speaks out
Athena’s mom, Maitland Gandy, expressed heartbreak over the loss: “Athena was robbed of the chance to be something she needed to be… I used to be robbed of watching her develop up by a person that everybody was supposed to have the ability to belief.”Each of Athena’s mother and father have filed lawsuits towards FedEx and Topspin, claiming negligence and failure to correctly vet Horner earlier than entrusting him with deliveries.
Protection cites psychological well being points
Horner’s lawyer, Steven Goble, informed the jury that Horner has autism and lifelong psychological well being points, allegedly exacerbated by prenatal alcohol publicity and lead poisoning. Goble requested jurors to condemn him to life in jail, reasonably than the demise penalty.Over three years after the horrific killing, Tanner Horner has pleaded responsible, leaving the jury to find out whether or not he’ll face execution or spend life behind bars.
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