Retired Auburn University Professor Killed in Tragic Attack While Walking Dog in Alabama Park

Published by RawNews1st

AUBURN, Ala. — A beloved retired Auburn University professor, Dr. Julie Gard Schnuelle, was fatally attacked while walking her dog in Kiesel Park, a popular green space in Auburn, Alabama, on Saturday, September 6, 2025.

The 59-year-old veterinarian and longtime faculty member of Auburn University’s College of Veterinary Medicine was found dead in a wooded area of the park, leaving the community in shock and mourning.

According to the Auburn Police Department, officers responded to a call around 2:00 p.m. reporting a deceased person in Kiesel Park, a sprawling 124-acre park known for its walking trails and off-leash dog area. Authorities identified the victim as Dr. Schnuelle, who had sustained injuries consistent with an assault.

Lee County Coroner Daniel Sexton confirmed to multiple outlets that Schnuelle died from multiple sharp force injuries, potentially caused by a knife. Her dog, which she had been walking at the time of the attack, was found unharmed.

Investigators believe Schnuelle was attacked in broad daylight while walking her dog in the park, a place described by locals as a safe and family-friendly community space.

Adding to the tragedy, Schnuelle’s red Ford F-150 truck was reported missing from the scene. The vehicle was later recovered in a nearby pumpkin patch, according to reports from NewsNation affiliate WRBL.

On Sunday, September 7, police arrested 28-year-old Harold Rashad Dabney III of Montgomery, Alabama, in connection with the homicide. Dabney was charged with two counts of capital murder, with court documents suggesting the killing occurred during an attempted kidnapping and theft.

Under Alabama law, multiple counts of capital murder can be filed if prosecutors believe the crime involves aggravating factors.

Dabney is currently being held without bond. Auburn police reported that officers identified Dabney as a suspect after responding to a call about a suspicious person near Beehive Road, though specific details about what led to his arrest have not been disclosed.

Dr. Julie Gard Schnuelle was a distinguished veterinarian, educator, and researcher who served as a faculty member in Auburn University’s Department of Clinical Sciences from 2003 until her retirement in 2021. A 1996 graduate of Auburn’s veterinary school, she specialized in theriogenology (animal reproduction) and was board-certified in the field.

Auburn University released a statement expressing deep sorrow over her loss, describing her as a “cherished educator, mentor, and colleague” whose dedication to students and passion for veterinary medicine left a lasting impact on the Auburn community.
The brutal attack has rattled residents of Auburn, a city where Kiesel Park is considered a cherished community gathering place for families, joggers, and dog walkers.

Many expressed disbelief that such a violent act could occur in a space long regarded as safe and peaceful. The park remained closed through the weekend as police continued their investigation.
Andrew Stanley, the defense attorney appointed to represent Dabney, declined to comment on the case, noting that it is still in its early stages.

The Lee County District Attorney’s office also refrained from discussing specific details of the case with media outlets.

Auburn University and the broader community continue to mourn the loss of Dr. Schnuelle, whose contributions to veterinary medicine and education touched countless lives.

Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the Auburn Police Department at 334-246-1391.

Sources: ABC News, CBS News, NewsNation, WRBL, Newsweek