The Auburn University community is mourning the tragic loss of Professor Emerita Julie Gard Schnuelle, DVM, Ph.D., who was brutally murdered in Kiesel Park on Saturday, September 6th, 2025. The 59-year-old retired professor, known for her dedication to veterinary medicine and her students, was walking her dog when she was attacked. Her dog was found unharmed.
The Auburn Police Department responded to a call around 2 p.m. reporting a deceased individual in a wooded area of the park. The park was subsequently closed while authorities investigated the scene. Preliminary findings indicated the death resulted from a violent assault, with evidence suggesting injuries consistent with a sharp object, possibly a knife. A full autopsy is pending.
On Sunday, September 7th, Auburn Police arrested 28-year-old Harold Rashad Dabney of Montgomery, Alabama. Dabney has been charged with two counts of capital murder: one for the murder itself and another for robbery, as Schnuelle's Ford F-150 truck was stolen from the park following the attack. The vehicle was later recovered.
Professor Schnuelle's distinguished career at Auburn University spanned over two decades. She joined the College of Veterinary Medicine faculty in 2003, graduating from the same institution in 1996. Her expertise in theriogenology (the study of animal reproduction) and her research on cattle disease prevention left an indelible mark on the field. Following her retirement in 2021, she served as the area veterinarian in charge for Alabama and Mississippi at the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Auburn University released a statement expressing profound sorrow and extending heartfelt condolences to Dr. Schnuelle's family and friends. The university described her as a cherished educator, mentor, and colleague whose passion and dedication will be deeply missed. The senseless act of violence has shaken the Auburn community, prompting an outpouring of grief and support for her loved ones. The investigation into this horrific crime is ongoing.
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Originally published at: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/auburn-professor-stabbed-death-walking-dog-man-charge-murder/
