A former university lecturer was tragically murdered while walking her dog at a well-known park, according to authorities. Dr. Julie Gard Schnuelle, 59, sustained injuries consistent with sharp force trauma during an assault in Kiesel Park in Auburn, Alabama. She had visited the park to walk her dog, given its extensive dog park and two-mile walking trails. Unfortunately, the retired veterinary professor from Auburn University was found deceased in a wooded area within the park, with her red Ford F-150 truck missing. Following the incident, Harold Rashad Dabney III, 28, was arrested and charged with two counts of capital murder. Investigators suspect Dabney killed Dr. Gard Schnuelle during an attempted kidnapping and robbery. He is currently in custody without bail.
Details regarding the exact cause of Dr. Gard Schnuelle’s death were not disclosed by the police. However, the Lee County Coroner confirmed that her injuries matched sharp force trauma. Fortunately, her dog was found unharmed and returned to her family. Police were alerted to a suspicious individual on Saturday morning, leading to Dabney’s arrest on Sunday.
Dr. Gard Schnuelle, a veterinarian specializing in large animals, graduated from the veterinary school in 1996 and worked there as a faculty member from 2003 until her retirement in 2021, focusing on theriogenology. Even after retiring, she remained involved with the veterinary school. Auburn University expressed deep sorrow over the loss, highlighting Dr. Gard Schnuelle’s contributions as an educator, mentor, researcher, and leader in theriogenology. Her dedication, passion for teaching, and service to the field have left a lasting impact.
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