A man charged with the murder of 7-year-old Athena Strand has been indicted by a grand jury.
Tanner Horner was also indicted for the aggravated kidnapping of Strand. Wise County Sheriff, Lane Akin, confirmed that the Wise County grand jury indicted Horner on Thursday. In response, Strand’s mother, Maitlyn Grandy, expressed that the 31-year-old’s indictment is just the start.
“Tanner Horner’s indictment is the beginning of a long road through the justice system. I appreciate everyone’s continued support and for keeping Athena’s name and memory alive,” Gandy said.
During the search to identify Horner, police were notified that a FedEx package was delivered to the Strand house at the time of Strand’s disappearance. After locating the van used to deliver the package, police were able to find video footage showing Horner taking Strand into the vehicle. The child’s body was found on Dec. 2, the same day an Amber Alert was put out, 10 miles from her home.
Horner ultimately confessed to taking Strand and told investigators that she was dead. He said that he accidentally hit Strand with the FedEx van while reversing but admitted that she was not seriously injured when he hit her. Horner claimed he panicked and put the child in the van before strangling her when she threatened to tell her father.
The following Friday night, police held a press conference saying the body was found. FBI agent Jim Dwyer said authorities believe the child died within an hour of being abducted.
Grandy thanked those responsible for bringing Horner to justice, saying, “I would like to thank the Wise County grand jury for their role in this process. Hearing the facts and circumstances of my 7-year-old daughter’s kidnapping and murder was undoubtedly very difficult for them. I want them to know that their work is deeply appreciated.”
Grandy also had a message for all parents: “Please take a moment to hug your children and loved ones. No one is promised another day.”
Horner is currently being held in the Wise County Jail on a bond of $1.5 million. Police think Horner is a lone offender in the crime, but he faces an additional three unrelated charges for sexual assault of a child from incidents in 2013.