Image Credit: The Dallas Morning News via Gett The case of Athena Strand officially came to a close on May 5, 2026. Tanner Horner, who had been on trial for the kidnapping and murder of the late 7-year-old girl, received his sentencing that day after the jury reached a verdict. He was facing the death penalty or life in prison without the possibility of parole after pleading guilty to capital murder. Athena's family members delivered gut-wrenching impact statements throughout the trial. Her mother, Maitlyn Gandy, took the stand in April, wearing Athena's favorite color: pink.