- NhuQuynh
- September 11, 2026
A new legal development is drawing attention in the Athena Strand case, as Tanner Horner’s request for a new trial has reportedly been rejected by a judge.
Horner, the former FedEx contract driver who was sentenced to d#ath in connection with the 2022 kidnap#ing and k#lling of 7-year-old Athena Strand, had argued through his attorneys that extensive media coverage surrounding the case affected the proceedings and may have discouraged potential defense witnesses from coming forward.
Requests for a new trial can be filed after a conviction, but courts generally require a significant legal basis, such as newly discovered evidence or an issue that may have affected the fairness of the original proceedings.#
Horner’s capital murder trial took place in Tarrant County’s 297th District Court from April 7 through May 5, 2026. On the first day of proceedings, he pleaded guilty to the charges involving Athena.
The case drew widespread attention after investigators traced the delivery connected to Horner and examined security footage from his delivery vehicle. Authorities said the footage became important evidence in establishing what happened after he arrived at Athena’s home.
Horner was ultimately sentenced to d#ath following the trial proceedings. His case is now continuing through the legal process, while Athena’s family continues to live with the devastating loss of a 7-year-old girl whose story captured national attention.
Nguồn: ᴀssociated Press – Former FedEx driver pleads guilty in Athena Strand case · CBS News – Athena Strand case coverage
