Jury Breaks Down Hearing 7-Year-Old Athena Strand's Screams During Murder

Disturbing evidence shown in trial of FedEx driver Tanner Horner, who pleaded guilty to killing the young girl

Apr. 17, 2026 at 5:05pm

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An extreme close-up of a crumpled, bloodstained piece of evidence from the crime scene, dramatically lit by a harsh flash against a dark background, conveying the gritty, investigative nature of the case.The disturbing evidence presented in the Athena Strand murder trial has left an indelible mark on all who have witnessed it.Paradise Today

Jurors deliberating the punishment for Tanner Horner, the FedEx driver who kidnapped and murdered 7-year-old Athena Strand in Texas, broke down in tears after hearing audio and video evidence of the girl's final moments. Prosecutors presented harrowing footage and recordings of Athena screaming and sobbing as Horner abducted and killed her in November 2022.

Why it matters

The disturbing evidence shown in court highlights the tragic and senseless nature of Athena's murder, which has deeply impacted her family and the local community. The case has also raised broader questions about safety protocols for delivery services and the need for stronger protections for children.

The details

Security footage showed Horner, 34, pulling up to Athena's home, taking her from the driveway, and putting her in his FedEx delivery truck. Audio recordings captured Athena's pleas and cries as Horner drove away with her. Prosecutors said Horner later killed Athena and attempted to cover up the crime by cleaning his truck and passing through a checkpoint. Horner pleaded guilty to capital murder and aggravated kidnapping just before his trial was set to begin.

  • On November 30, 2022, Horner kidnapped Athena from her driveway in Paradise, Texas.
  • Athena's naked body was found two days later in a nearby river.
  • On April 7, 2026, Horner pleaded guilty to capital murder and aggravated kidnapping.
  • On April 16, 2026, the jury heard the disturbing evidence during the penalty phase of Horner's trial.

The players

Tanner Horner

The 34-year-old FedEx driver who pleaded guilty to kidnapping and murdering 7-year-old Athena Strand.

Athena Strand

The 7-year-old girl who was kidnapped from her driveway and murdered by Tanner Horner in November 2022.

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What they’re saying

“'Are you a kidnapper? Where are you taking me?'”

— Athena Strand

“'You're really pretty, you know that?'”

— Tanner Horner

What’s next

Jurors will continue deliberating whether Tanner Horner should receive the death penalty or life imprisonment for Athena Strand's murder.

The takeaway

The harrowing details of Athena's final moments have deeply impacted the community and highlighted the urgent need for stronger safeguards to protect children from violent crimes. This case will likely spur renewed discussions about delivery service protocols, child safety, and sentencing for heinous acts of violence.