Tanner Horner, 31, is charged with the murder of Athena Strand, 7. Tanner was a driver for FexEx and Uber. Athena went missing in Paradise, Texas, she was found dead on December 2, 2022.
Athena went missing on November 30, 2022 at her home in Paradise. Little Athena got into an argument with her step-mom.
Athena went to her room, but at some point left the house. Athena’s parent’s were cooking dinner, they then went to Athena’s room to notify her of dinner, but Athena was missing.
Athena’s parents immediately looked for Athena and notified police.
Tanner was in the neighborhood delivering packages for FedEx. Tanner was in a delivery truck and noticed Athena walking outside alone. Tanner is accused of luring Athena in the truck and abducting her.
Tanner was later identified as a suspect. When police questioned Tanner 2 days later, he allegedly confessed to murdering Athena.
Police say Tanner led them to Athena’s dead body. Athena’s body was found on December 2, 2022 at 10 p.m. Her body was found in a wooded area along the Trinity River in Texas.
Tanner now faces charges of capital murder and aggravated kidnapping. An official autopsy revealing the manner and cause of death with more details is expected to be released soon.
Uber says that they have now banned Tanner from Uber. FedEx fired Tanner after his murder arrest.
FedEx issued a statement late Friday saying:
“Words cannot describe our shock and sorrow at the reports surrounding this tragic event. First and foremost, our thoughts are with the family during this most difficult time, and we continue to cooperate fully with the investigating authorities. At this time, any further questions should be directed to law enforcement.”
