Mother of Athena Strand Speaks in Emotional Court Testimony
The mother of seven-year-old Athena Strand gave a deeply emotional statement in court during the sentencing hearing of Tanner Horner.
Maitlyn Gandy addressed the court wearing pink, her daughter’s favorite color, with her hair dyed to match. She spoke directly in front of Horner as she shared memories of her daughter and the lasting impact of the loss.
She recalled the last time she saw Athena, describing a brief goodbye before a planned family outing.
“I told her that I loved her and that I would see her soon,” Gandy said, according to KDFW.
Gandy also spoke about the difficult moments that followed, including saying goodbye to her daughter and the emotional weight of that experience. Her testimony highlighted the deep bond she shared with Athena and the care she showed even in her final moments with her.
She also shared how challenging it was to explain the loss to Athena’s younger sister, who was just three years old at the time.
“I didn’t know how to tell her,” Gandy said. “For a long time, I tried to protect her from the truth.”
Case Overview
According to prosecutors, Athena was reported missing on November 30, 2022, from her home in Lake Worth, Texas.
Investigators later determined that Horner, who was working as a delivery driver at the time, was responsible for her disappearance. Evidence presented in court showed that Athena had been inside his delivery vehicle, contradicting earlier statements he made to authorities.
Horner later led investigators to the location where Athena was found.
Court Proceedings
During the trial, prosecutors outlined the sequence of events and presented evidence related to the case. Horner ultimately pleaded guilty to charges including kidnapping and murder.
Jurors are now tasked with deciding whether he will receive a life sentence or the death penalty.
A Family’s Loss
Throughout her testimony, Gandy focused on remembering her daughter’s life and the lasting impact of her absence.
Her statement reflected not only grief, but also the strength required to speak publicly about such a personal loss. The case has drawn significant attention and continues to resonate with many who have followed it.
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