Story perspectives

Jury Death-Sentences Ex-FedEx Contractor, Prompting Athena Alert Law

5/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

Tarrant County jury sentenced former FedEx contractor Tanner Horner to death after less than three hours of deliberation.
Jurors said Horner remained a continuing danger and rejected mitigating circumstances.
FedEx called Horner an independent contractor, removed him immediately, and is cooperating with investigators.
Athena’s family sued Horner, FedEx and Big Topspin for negligent hiring, prompting Texas to pass the Athena Alert law expanding Amber Alert powers.

History

Historical Context

In 1996 the abduction and murder of 9-year-old Amber Hagerman in Arlington, Texas prompted the Texas Department of Public Safety and the FBI to issue the first Amber Alert. Congress later enacted legislation that created a national system, and by the 2000s all 50 states participated, with the program recovering at least 656 children.

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Story summary

Tarrant County jury sentenced former FedEx contractor Tanner Horner to death after less than three hours of deliberation.
Jurors said Horner remained a continuing danger and rejected mitigating circumstances.
FedEx called Horner an independent contractor, removed him immediately, and is cooperating with investigators.
Athena’s family sued Horner, FedEx and Big Topspin for negligent hiring, prompting Texas to pass the Athena Alert law expanding Amber Alert powers.

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