Answers For Athena: Information Page
Athena Strand, 7, was found dead on December 2, two days after a FedEx driver kidnapped and killed her after making a Christmas delivery to her father’s home in Paradise, Texas.
Tanner Horner, 31, was arrested and has been indicted for capital murder and aggravated kidnapping. He is being held in the Wise County Jail on a $1.5 million bond.
The outpouring of grief and support has been overwhelming in Wise County and beyond, where students and residents have been wearing pink in honor of the free-spirited first-grader.
Strand’s mother, Maitlyn Gandy, retained Varghese Summersett to assist in various aspects of this case, which has garnered extensive media attention and has the public demanding justice, both criminally and civilly.
This page contains information about the latest developments in the case, scheduled events, and ways to support the family during their extraordinary journey through grief. It will be updated regularly.
Athena Alert Law: HB3556
Wrongful Death Lawsuit
December 8, 2022 Press Conference
Our short-term efforts are focused on Athena’s family; taking as much as we can off their plates so they can mourn her loss. Our long-term goals are to thoroughly investigate how and why this happened and to hold any person or corporation accountable whose actions or inactions could have prevented this little girl’s tragic death. We will leave no stone unturned in our quest to get answers for Athena.
Benson Varghese
Varghese Summersett Injury Law Group Press Release
⇒ June 13, 2023: Texas Governor Signs “Athena Alert” Into Law
⇒ May 25, 2023: “Athena Alert” Bill Flies Through Texas Senate
⇒ May 9, 2023: Texas House Passes “Athena Alert” Bill
⇒ Febuary 16, 2023: Statement from Maitlyn Gandy Regarding Indictment of Tanner Horner
⇒ December 8, 2022: Press Conference Statement from Maitlyn Gandy, Mother of Athena Strand
⇒ December 6, 2022: Mother of 7-Year-Old Athena Strand to Speak During Press Conference
Events
Athena Strand Memorial Birthday Tournament
August 12, 2023
Duncan Sports Park & Activity Center
400 M.L.K. Jr. Blvd., Duncan, OK 73533
Hosted: Maitlyn Gandy
Athena Strand COED Softball Tournament
(Postponed Due to Weather)
May 13 – 14
Duncan Sports Park & Activity Center
400 M.L.K. Jr. Blvd., Duncan, OK 73533
Hosted: Maitlyn Gandy
The tournament is a celebration of Athena’s life and birthday.
Email: AllThingsAthenaStrand2015@hotmail.com to reserve your team’s spot
(Past) Athena Strand COED Softball Tournament
January 7-8
Kenny Renshaw Park
2705 FM-51 Decatur TX
Call or text 817-690-9869 to sign up
Purchase a sweatshirt or jersey: https://athenastrong.itemorder.com/shop/home/
(Past) Pink Out Ride for Athena
December 18, 1:00 p.m.
Meet at 411 South Broadway Marlow, OK
How to Give
First Baptist Church Cottondale
- Online: Go to fbcottondale.com, select “give,” select “to the Strand” family;
- Text: Text the word “give” to 940-400-0144;
- In Person: There is an offering box in the foyer of the church, 145 CR 3355, Paradise
“It’s not just about painting and customizing a casket, it’s about helping families start their healing process.” – Trey Ganem
Tips, Leads, Information
If you have a tip or lead regarding this case or the defendant, please email it to answersforathena@versusinjury.com.
Media Inquiries
Melody McDonald Lanier Media Relations Director Varghese Summersett melody@versustexas.com
If you would like to list an event or add information to this page, please contact Media Relations Director Melody Lanier at melody@versustexas.com.
