Veterinary Community Mourns Loss of Beloved Auburn Professor Dr. Julie Gard Schnuelle

Retired veterinary professor killed while walking her dog at Alabama park; suspect charged with capital murder

AUBURN, AL, September 7, 2025 — The veterinary community is reeling from the tragic loss of Dr. Julie Gard Schnuelle, a beloved retired Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine professor who was murdered while walking her dog at Kiesel Park in Auburn, Alabama on Friday, September 6, 2025.

A Life Dedicated to Veterinary Medicine

Dr. Schnuelle, 59, was a respected figure in veterinary education and animal reproduction science. She served as a faculty member in Auburn’s Department of Clinical Sciences from 2003 until her retirement in 2021, specializing in theriogenology—the science and study of animal reproduction.

Her impact on the veterinary field extended far beyond the classroom. Dr. Schnuelle was a 1996 graduate of Auburn’s veterinary program who went on to earn her Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences. She also served as the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Area Veterinarian in Charge for Alabama and Mississippi, demonstrating her commitment to animal health and food safety.

Remembering a Pioneering Veterinarian

Former students describe Dr. Schnuelle as a trailblazer who broke barriers in large animal veterinary medicine. At just over 5 feet 2 inches tall, she defied the typical image of a large animal veterinarian but commanded respect through her expertise and dedication.

“She was a force in this world, such a bright, bright light,” said former student Destinee Bearden Patterson. “She changed the game.”

Another former student, Ashley Rutter, shared a powerful example of Dr. Schnuelle’s dedication: “I heard a story one time of her having a baby, and she went in for [a cow that was having trouble giving birth]. She had to sit down during the surgery… Then, once they found out that she had literally just had a baby, like, that day or the day before, it was very impressive. She was a hard worker.”

A Passion for Teaching and Mentoring

Even in retirement, Dr. Schnuelle remained actively involved in veterinary education. Just last month, she taught a 4-hour professional certification class for veterinarians in Birmingham, continuing her mission to advance veterinary knowledge and skills.

Auburn University described her as “a cherished educator, mentor and colleague whose dedication to students and passion for theriogenology and veterinary medicine left a lasting impact on Auburn.”

“Dr. Gard Schnuelle’s legacy of compassion, scholarship and service will continue to inspire generations of veterinarians,” the university stated.

The Tragic Incident

Dr. Schnuelle was a creature of habit who visited Kiesel Park daily for exercise and to walk her dog. “She ran there every day,” said former student Ashley Rutter. “She was always so welcoming. She was spunky and ready to make jokes.”

On Friday, September 6, 2025, Dr. Schnuelle was walking her dog at Kiesel Park, located in the 500 block of Chadwick Lane, when tragedy struck. Auburn Police responded to the park after receiving a call reporting a deceased person. Officers discovered the 59-year-old’s body in a wooded area within the sprawling park, which features 2 miles of walking trails and a popular off-leash dog area frequented by veterinary students, faculty, and community members.

The victim had injuries indicating her death was caused by an assault. Her red Ford F-150 pickup truck was discovered missing from an area near the crime scene, prompting police to issue an alert asking the public to report any sightings of the vehicle.

Her dog was found unharmed and has been returned to her family—a small comfort in this devastating tragedy.

Swift Investigation Leads to Arrest

Harold Rashad Dabney III, 28, of Montgomery, Alabama charged with two counts of capital murder

The Auburn Police Department launched an intensive homicide investigation, temporarily closing Kiesel Park to the public through the weekend and requesting community vigilance. The investigation involved multiple agencies, including the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, State Bureau of Investigation, FBI, Lee County Emergency Management Agency, Alabama Department of Corrections, and the Lee County District Attorney’s Office.

Just over 24 hours later, on September 7 at approximately 8:30 a.m., Auburn Police responded to a call reporting a suspicious person near the 2300 block of Beehive Road. When officers located and contacted Harold Rashad Dabney III, 28, of Montgomery, Alabama, they made observations that led them to believe he was involved in the previous day’s homicide.

After further investigation, Dabney was confirmed as the suspect and charged with two counts of capital murder. He was transported to the Lee County Jail where he is being held without bond. Dr. Schnuelle’s stolen red Ford F-150 has been recovered.

Auburn Police thanked the public for their vigilance during the investigation, noting they received numerous investigative tips that helped lead to the swift resolution.

This appears to have been a random act of violence against someone who was simply enjoying a routine morning walk with her beloved dog—an activity that brought her daily joy and stress relief.

Impact on the Veterinary Community

The loss has sent shockwaves through the veterinary profession, particularly among Auburn’s veterinary community. Dr. Allen Riley, a 1985 Auburn veterinary graduate and program chairman of the Jefferson County Veterinary Medical Association, expressed his shock at losing such a well-known and respected colleague.

“She’s been here before speaking to veterinarians from all over the state. She was well-known,” Riley said.

The tragedy has also raised safety concerns about Kiesel Park, a popular spot for veterinary students and pet owners that was previously considered a safe space for exercise and recreation with dogs.

A Legacy That Lives On

Dr. Schnuelle’s impact on veterinary medicine will continue through the countless students she taught and mentored throughout her career. Her pioneering work in animal reproduction and her dedication to advancing veterinary education have left an indelible mark on the profession.

The veterinary community has lost not just a brilliant scientist and educator, but a compassionate mentor who inspired others to pursue excellence in animal care. Her legacy serves as a reminder of the dedication and passion that drives veterinary professionals to serve animals and their human companions.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Dr. Schnuelle’s family, friends, colleagues, and all the veterinary professionals whose lives she touched throughout her distinguished career.