Authorities in Auburn, Alabama, are investigating the tragic killing of retired professor Julie Gard Schnuelle, 59, who was attacked while walking her dog at Kiesel Park. Law enforcement believes she was ambushed by Harold Rashad Dabney III, a 26-year-old man, who allegedly attacked her with a sharp object. Schnuelle’s body was discovered in a wooded area of the park, displaying injuries consistent with a violent assault. Following the incident, Dabney was arrested on two counts of capital murder and also charged with stealing Schnuelle’s Ford F-150 pickup truck. The Lee County Coroner’s Office confirmed that she died from “multiple sharp force injuries,” highlighting the gruesome nature of the crime.
Investigators believe that Dabney’s actions were premeditated, as it is thought he ambushed Schnuelle while she was strolling with her dog, subsequently dragging her into the woods and attacking her. The case took a turn when police received a call about a suspicious individual, leading them to Dabney, who was apprehended on Sunday morning. The Auburn Police Department’s statement emphasized that they collected evidence that suggested Dabney’s direct involvement in the homicide, underlining the collaborative effort of detectives in swiftly resolving the case.
Schnuelle held a distinguished position as a professor emerita at Auburn University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, where she was known for her significant contributions to education and veterinary science. Her career spanned from 2003 until she retired in 2021, during which she became highly regarded among her students and colleagues. The university expressed its deep condolences to Schnuelle’s family through a statement that reflected on her legacy as a dedicated educator and mentor, highlighting her unwavering passion for her field and the lasting impact she had on her students.
Former students, including Ashley Rutter, recalled Schnuelle’s vibrant personality, describing her as someone who was welcoming, humorous, and fiercely supportive. Rutter noted that Schnuelle was a regular at Kiesel Park, where she would go daily for exercise. Her approachable demeanor and readiness to stand up for others made her an exemplary figure within the community, and her untimely death has prompted an outpouring of grief and support for her family from those who cherished her.
Schnuelle’s legacy in the veterinary community is characterized by her commitment to theriogenology, a specialized area of veterinary medicine focused on reproduction. The Auburn University community is left mourning not just the loss of a respected professor but also a beloved mentor who inspired countless future veterinarians. The impact of her teachings and her exemplary spirit is expected to resonate through the lives of her students for many years to come.
As the investigation into Schnuelle’s death continues, the Auburn community remains shaken by the brutality of the incident. Authorities are working diligently to ensure justice is served in this devastating case. The tragic loss has sparked conversations about safety measures in public spaces, particularly for individuals engaging in routine activities like walking or jogging in local parks. The grief felt by Schnuelle’s colleagues and former students underscores the profound loss of a spirited educator and advocate, leaving behind a legacy that will not be forgotten.
