Athena Grand photo shown as FedEx driver pleads guilty

A court in Fort Worth displayed an in-vehicle photo of 7-year-old Athena Grand after FedEx driver Tanner Horner unexpectedly pleaded guilty to capital murder and aggravated kidnapping; jurors will now decide whether to sentence him to death or life without parole.

A photo taken inside a delivery van of 7-year-old Athena Grand was shown in a Fort Worth courtroom as the defendant entered a plea. Officials say the child went missing on Nov. 30, 2022, during a delivery. The driver, Tanner Horner, pleaded guilty to capital murder of a child under 10 and to aggravated kidnapping as the trial was set to begin. Jurors are now tasked with deciding the defendant's punishment. Known details: - The image was presented in court and was taken from inside the delivery vehicle. - Authorities say the child disappeared on Nov. 30, 2022, during a package delivery to her home. - Tanner Horner pleaded guilty to capital murder and aggravated kidnapping as his trial was starting. - The jury will determine whether to impose the death penalty or life in prison without parole. Summary: The guilty plea shifted the case from a guilt phase to a punishment phase, leaving jurors to hear evidence and decide sentencing. Undetermined at this time: the date for jury deliberation or sentencing procedures beyond the jury's pending decision.