Athena Strand’s family sues FedEx and suspects’s employer

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FedEx and one of its subcontractors are being sued by Athena Strand’s family following her kidnapping and murder by one of their employees. 

Tanner Lynn Horner, the man who is suspected of killing the young girl, was employed through Big Topspin, Inc and delivered packages for FedEx Ground. He was arrested earlier this month and was charged with aggravated kidnapping. Authorities say he claims he accidentally struck Athena with his vehicle when making a delivery to her home and scared that she would tell her family she was hit by a FedEx truck, he took the girl into his van and killed her. 

According to the suit filed by Athena’s father Jacob Strand, FedEx and Big Topspin were accused of gross negligence while also accusing Horner of assault. They are seeking more than $1 million dollars in damages. 

The lawsuit states, “FedEx has continued their normal business operations although it is clear that their current efforts, if any, to ensure that they are not putting dangerous persons in a position of trust wearing FedEx uniforms, driving FedEx branded vehicles, and sending them to the doorsteps of the homes of nearly every person in America is woefully inadequate to avoid endangering the public.”

The lawsuit alleges that FedEx and Big Topspin failed to properly supervise Horner and enforce adequate safety policies. The suit also alleges that the companies negligently hired Horner. 

FedEx released a statement and said, “Our thoughts remain with the family of Athena Strand in the wake of this tragedy. We are aware of the complaint filed against FedEx Ground.”

According to inmate records, Horner is being held in the Wise County Jail on a $1.5 million dollar bond.