A retired professor from Auburn University tragically lost her life while walking her dog in Kiesel Park on Saturday. Dr. Julie Gard Schnuelle, 59, was discovered by police after a 911 call alerted them to an unresponsive individual in the park. Authorities have arrested 28-year-old Harold Rashad Dabney III, who now faces two charges of capital murder in connection with this incident.
According to reports, Schnuelle was enjoying a day at the park with her dog when she was killed. Auburn University expressed their grief in a statement, noting, “Julie Gard Schnuelle, DVM, Ph.D., was a beloved member of Auburn University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and the Auburn Family.” This highlights how deeply she was valued in her professional community.
Schnuelle served as a faculty member in the Department of Clinical Sciences in the Large Animal/Food Animal section from 2003 until her retirement in 2021. The university conveyed their condolences to her family during what they described as an “unimaginably difficult time.” Her passing raises significant worries regarding safety, particularly in a location that had always been thought of as a secure place for students and families alike.
The police responded around 2 p.m. and found Schnuelle deceased. Her dog was found safely and unharmed. It wasn’t long before authorities identified and apprehended Dabney. He was taken into custody following reports of a suspicious individual that led officers to him. The stolen vehicle belonging to Schnuelle was also recovered, according to statements from law enforcement.
After making contact with Dabney, police observed details that pointed to his involvement in the crime. The investigation confirmed the chilling reality that Schnuelle was the victim of a random act of violence. Law enforcement charged Dabney with two counts of capital murder, a serious offense reflecting the gravity of the situation.
In the veterinary community, Schnuelle was recognized for her inspiring presence and professionalism. Dr. Ashley Rutter, a veterinarian from Birmingham, remembered her fondly: “She was always so welcoming. She was spunky and ready to make jokes. But if she saw something she didn’t like, she would always stand up for you and for herself.” Such sentiments illustrate not only her character but the impact she had on those around her.
Destinee Bearden Patterson, a former student and friend of Schnuelle, described her as “a force,” remarking on her stature and bright personality. “She was only a little bit over 5-foot-2, not your typical large animal veterinarian. She was a force in this world, such a bright, bright light,” Patterson said. Her words capture the essence of Schnuelle, a woman who was both unique and formidable in her field.
Patterson also pointed out the unsettling shift in perceptions of safety at Kiesel Park. “Kiesel Park is one of those places that’s frequented by veterinary students, all the students at Auburn. It was always considered to be a safe space,” she explained. The tragic nature of this event has left many questioning the security of such familiar and typically safe environments.
The impact of Schnuelle’s death resonates beyond the immediate community, shocking those who knew her and highlighting a broader concern regarding random acts of violence. Patterson expressed the devastating nature of the loss, saying, “To find out that some random person has taken her from us for seemingly no reason is beyond devastating.” Her painful sentiment emphasizes the fragility of life and the unpredictability of violence.
With the investigation ongoing and a suspect in custody, the community reflects on the legacy of Dr. Julie Gard Schnuelle. Her contributions to veterinary medicine and her charismatic presence will be sorely missed. As Auburn University mourns their loss, the plea for safety in ordinary places becomes all the more urgent.
"*" indicates required fields
