CNN
—
The mother of a 7-year-old child abducted and killed in Texas in December has thanked a grand jury for its role in indicting the man accused of murdering her daughter.
Tanner Horner was arrested in December after he allegedly told authorities he strangled 7-year-old Athena Strand after accidentally hitting her with his vehicle while making a FedEx delivery to her home on November 30.
Horner was charged with capital murder and aggravated kidnapping on Thursday, according to Wise County court records.
“I want to thank the Wise County Grand Jury for their role in this process. Hearing the facts and circumstances of the abduction and murder of my 7 year old daughter has undoubtedly been very difficult for them. I want them to know that their work is deeply appreciated,” Athena’s mother, Maitlyn Gandy, said in a statement provided to CNN affiliate WFAA.
“The indictment of Tanner Horner is the beginning of a long journey through the justice system. I appreciate everyone’s continued support and for keeping Athena’s name and memory alive. Please take a moment to hug your children and loved ones. No one is promised another day,” Gandy said.
CNN has reached out to Horner’s court-appointed attorney for comment.
According to two arrest warrants obtained last year by CNN affiliate KTVT, Horner allegedly told investigators he put Athena in his van and strangled her because he was afraid she would tell someone. one that she had been hit by a FedEx truck.
Strand’s family filed a lawsuit against FedEx and one of its contractors in December, accusing them of gross negligence and accusing Horner of assault. The family is seeking more than $1 million in damages from the companies and Horner, according to the lawsuit.
Horner delivered packages for FedEx Ground but was employed by a contractor, Big Topspin, Inc., according to the lawsuit.
In response to the lawsuit, FedEx said in a statement, “Our thoughts remain with the family of Athena Strand following this tragedy. We are aware of the complaint filed against FedEx Ground.
CNN has previously attempted to contact Big Topspin, Inc. for comment.
In December, Horner was also charged with sexual assault of children under 17 in three separate incidents in 2013.
Wise County Sheriff Lane Akin told CNN the 2013 charges “happened a while ago” and are separate from the Strand case. Other people came forward regarding the 2013 charges after Horner’s arrest, Akin said.
An investigation by the Fort Worth Police Department determined that Horner allegedly sexually assaulted children in June, August and December 2013, charging documents say.
The minor victims have not been identified. The charges came from Tarrant County, records show.
cnn
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