Horner Trial: Expert Witness Showdown Begins

The capital murder trial for Tanner Horner, accused of kidnapping and killing 7-year-old Athena Strand in 2022, resumed Monday with a critical legal proceeding. This phase, known as voir dire, focuses on vetting the defense's expert witnesses to determine what testimony the jury will be permitted to hear.

Four medical experts testified on behalf of the defense, evaluating Horner and presenting diagnoses of autism, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, and severe childhood lead poisoning. One expert noted Horner's childhood lead levels were 24 times higher than typical. A psychologist also testified that Horner referred to an alter ego named "Zero."

Prosecutors challenged the defense experts' findings and methodologies. The psychologist reported that Horner admitted to killing Athena during her evaluation, claiming he was concerned she saw him using cocaine. However, she also stated her professional opinion that Horner understands right from wrong, indicating this is not an insanity defense.

The voir dire process is standard in capital cases to ensure the reliability of expert testimony presented to the jury. Further hearings are scheduled for Tuesday, with full testimony before the jury expected to resume on Wednesday. Horner's mother is anticipated to be the defense's first witness.