Inside the Strange Claims and Struggles in Athena Strand's Murder Case

During the third day of Tanner Horner’s trial, jurors heard some disturbing details about how a nine-year-old girl’s remains were found. Investigators tracked down clues that led them to Horner’s property—including clothes matching what Athena Strand wore when she disappeared, later discovered in his backpack. Federal agents used tech tools like geofencing and cell data to piece together where Horner had been, showing just how closely law enforcement followed his movements. Prosecutors dug deeper into Horner’s background, showing jurors photos of his living space—a small shed near his family’s home. That area became a key spot in the investigation. Among the items found there were clothing pieces linked to Athena, including children’s underwear and socks. When confronted, Horner allegedly claimed he took her clothes to "humiliate" her, calling it "funny. " His explanations for why he did this kept changing, like when he said Athena was just in the "wrong place at the wrong time. "Horner’s defense relied heavily on mental health struggles. He described a shadowy figure called "Zero" who he blamed for his actions, saying it felt like a "little devil" was controlling him. But witnesses noted how inconsistent his claims were—at times admitting fault in one breath, then shifting blame to this imaginary "Zero" in the next. He even said he felt like he was watching the events "in the backseat, " as if dissociating from his own actions. His odd behavior extended to jail, where he attempted suicide and begged investigators to shoot him. Negotiations also played a role in the trial. Horner tried offering information in exchange for a lighter sentence or even just a chance to see his son for Christmas. His pleas seemed calculated, mixing genuine emotion with attempts at bargaining. He cried while saying he was "hurting for her and her family, " but continued pushing for a deal. Investigators, however, refused to promise anything in return. The trial raises big questions about responsibility and mental health in violent crimes. How much blame should fall on external factors like Horner’s alleged "Zero"? Can someone truly separate themselves from their actions so easily? The jury now has to weigh the evidence—and Horner’s shifting story—before making a decision.