UPDATE: A Texas judge has just denied a crucial request to delay the highly anticipated trial of former FedEx driver Tanner Horner, who faces capital murder charges in the tragic death of 7-year-old Athena Strand. The decision, made during a pretrial hearing on October 23, 2023, sets the stage for a series of hearings expected to unfold over the next two weeks, with the main trial scheduled for April 2024.
This development comes as both the prosecution and defense prepare for what promises to be an emotionally charged trial. Judge George Gallagher ruled against the defense’s motion to postpone the trial but indicated he might revisit the issue later. During Monday’s session, he agreed to review six hours of recorded police interviews, which could impact evidence presented during the trial.
In a significant move, prosecutors have narrowed their witness list from 100 to 60, focusing on key testimonies that will shape the jury’s understanding of the case. The stakes are incredibly high, as Wise County officials confirm they will pursue the death penalty against Horner.
The background of this case is harrowing. In December 2022, police documents revealed that Horner confessed to accidentally striking Athena with his delivery truck in her family’s driveway. In a panic, he admitted to killing the young girl, whose body was tragically discovered two days later along a roadside. Horner has pleaded not guilty to charges of capital murder and kidnapping.
Criminal defense attorney Toby Shook, who is not involved in this case, emphasized the emotional gravity of the trial. “It’s going to be a very emotional case, because it’s the murder of an innocent child,” Shook stated, highlighting how the nature of the allegations will weigh heavily on jurors. “Murder of a child is horrible, but this was strangulation. You’re face-to-face with the eyes of your victim, and it takes a while to strangle someone.”
As the trial approaches, the community and the nation watch closely, awaiting further developments that will shape this high-profile case. Stay tuned for updates as the proceedings unfold in Wise County, Texas.
