Tragic Events Surrounding Athena Strand’s Abduction
A haunting photograph has emerged, capturing the moments just before 7-year-old Athena Strand was allegedly kidnapped and killed by a FedEx driver as he delivered Christmas gifts. This image, released by prosecutors, depicts Athena appearing visibly anxious while Tanner Horner, the driver, focuses intently on the road.
Tanner Horner, 34, a former delivery driver, has been charged with the kidnapping and murder of Athena, whom he admitted to abducting while making a delivery in Paradise, Texas, a small town located about 90 miles northwest of Dallas. On the morning of his trial, Horner accepted a death penalty plea in Tarrant County Court.
During the proceedings, Judge George Gallagher asked Horner whether he wanted to plead guilty or not guilty. His straightforward response was, “Guilty, your honor.” The judge then acknowledged his plea.
On the day of the tragedy, Horner was allegedly delivering a package of Barbie dolls, which were intended to be a Christmas surprise for Athena. She had been visiting her father and stepmother, Jacob and Ashley Strand, in Wise County. Her body was discovered on December 2, just days after she went missing.
According to the arrest warrant, Horner recounted a disturbing narrative: he claimed he accidentally hit Athena with his van while reversing. Though she was not seriously hurt, he panicked and took her into the vehicle.
Athena’s stepmother, Ashley, recalled the unsettling moment she realized her stepdaughter was missing. Initially, she thought Athena might be hiding, but her concern grew when a package from Walmart—featuring the Barbie dolls—was found abandoned near their trailer.
As the search escalated after Athena was reported missing, an Amber Alert was issued, triggering a significant community effort. Former Wise County Sheriff Lane Akin described how locals joined law enforcement in their search. It was a heartfelt mobilization, with about 300 volunteers using four-wheelers, horses, and dogs to cover the area. The community’s determination was evident, as many came together to aid the search efforts.
