The people's voice of reason
The people's voice of reason
Rashad Dabney II is accused of brutally attacking and killing a retired veterinary professor in Auburn while she was walking her dog at a park in Auburn.
September 8, 2025 - AUBURN, AL. - The Auburn community is reeling after the tragic death of Dr. Julie Gard Schnuelle, a retired professor from Auburn University's College of Veterinary Medicine, who was found fatally stabbed in Kiesel Park on Saturday, September 6. Authorities have charged Harold Rashad Dabney III, 28, of Montgomery, with two counts of capital murder in connection with the killing.
Dr. Schnuelle, 59, was a respected theriogenologist specializing in large animal reproduction. She served on Auburn's faculty from 2003 until her retirement in 2021, earning recognition for her expertise in bovine medicine and her compassionate mentorship of veterinary students. Her death has sent shockwaves through the university and veterinary communities across Alabama.
According to Auburn Police, Schnuelle had driven to Kiesel Park-a popular 124-acre green space known for its walking trails and dog-friendly areas-to walk her dog, a routine she cherished. Sometime that morning, she was attacked in a wooded area of the park. Her body was discovered around 2:07 p.m. by a passerby, and Lee County Coroner Daniel Sexton later confirmed her injuries were consistent with a sharp-force assault, likely involving a knife.
Her dog was found unharmed and is now in the care of family and friends.
The following morning, officers responded to a report of a suspicious person near Beehive Road, just miles from the crime scene. They located Dabney and, based on observations and further investigation, identified him as the suspect. Police believe Dabney stole Schnuelle's red Ford F-150 truck after the attack and later abandoned it near Wire Road. A state helicopter was deployed to assist in the vehicle's recovery.
Dabney was arrested around 8:30 a.m. on Sunday and is currently being held without bond in the Lee County Jail. While formal warrants have not been released, authorities indicated the charges likely include murder during a robbery and possibly murder during a kidnapping-both qualifying as capital offenses under Alabama law.
The Auburn University community has expressed deep sorrow over the loss. In a statement, the College of Veterinary Medicine described Schnuelle as "a beloved member of the Auburn Family," highlighting her scholarly contributions and her dedication to students and animal care.
Kiesel Park, often considered one of Auburn's safest public spaces, is home to events like CityFest and the Fall Sundown Concert Series. Residents say the violent nature of the crime has shaken their sense of security and prompted calls for increased safety measures in public parks.
As the investigation continues, Auburn Police are urging anyone with information to contact their tip line at 334-246-1391.
Dr. Schnuelle's legacy as a scientist, educator, and caregiver will endure, but her sudden and violent death has left a void that will be felt across Alabama's veterinary and academic communities for years to come.
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