A Texas jury has sentenced Tanner Horner, 34, to death for the kidnapping and murder of seven-year-old Athena Strand in November 2022. Horner, who was a FedEx driver, pleaded guilty to capital murder and aggravated kidnapping in April. Prosecutors stated that his actions indicated deliberate intent, while Horner claimed he panicked after the incident. Authorities discovered Athena's body two days after her abduction, with the medical examiner confirming she died from blunt force trauma, smothering, and strangulation.

During the sentencing phase, Horner's ex-girlfriend, identified as Reba, testified about their relationship, which ended because he was not ready for fatherhood and preferred a casual arrangement. Reba expressed concern for Horner's mental health after their breakup. His mother, referred to as Mrs. Horner, also testified, revealing her troubled history of addiction and mental health issues. She described a chaotic upbringing that included abuse and her struggles with drugs, which impacted Tanner's childhood. Despite her past, she expressed her love for her son but distanced herself from his actions.