'You will face the wrath of God': Tanner Horner sentenced to death for Athena Strand's murder
Court TV • • general
Key Points:
- Tanner Lynn Horner, 35, who confessed to killing 7-year-old Athena Strand, was sentenced to death by a jury after pleading guilty to aggravated kidnapping and capital murder.
- The jury unanimously found Horner to be a continuing threat with no mitigating circumstances, deciding on the death penalty after 16 days of evidence and less than three hours of deliberation.
- Evidence presented included disturbing audio from the van’s microphone capturing Horner’s incriminating statements and DNA found in Athena’s underwear, though he was not charged with sexual assault.
- Horner’s defense cited his difficult childhood and Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis, but prosecutors rejected these as excuses, emphasizing personal responsibility despite disabilities.
- Athena’s family expressed their grief and condemnation after the verdict, with her uncle stating Horner will be forgotten while Athena’s memory will be honored; Horner requested an appellate attorney following the sentencing.
