Killer Blames FedEx for Autism, Murder

Tanner Horner, 34, a FedEx driver, has been accused of abducting and murdering seven-year-old Athena Strand in November 2022. Horner was delivering a Christmas present to Strand's home in Paradise, Texas, when he abducted her from her yard. He subsequently strangled the child and disposed of her body in a local creek.

While incarcerated, Horner penned a letter to Strand's family, attributing his actions to his autism. He claimed that FedEx's frequent changes to his delivery routes disrupted his routine, causing meltdowns and leading to his 'suicidal episode' before the murder. Horner asserted that his requests for a consistent route were ignored by FedEx.

During his sentencing hearing, jurors are being presented with evidence to decide if Horner should receive the death penalty. Prosecutors are detailing the horrific crime, including images of the creek where Strand's body was found. The medical examiner testified to the trauma Strand sustained. Horner also attempted to evade responsibility by falsely implicating another individual, a claim prosecutors have refuted.

In a separate communication, Horner had previously requested a month with his family for Christmas in exchange for information, a request that was denied by law enforcement. His trial is ongoing as the court determines the ultimate penalty for his crime.