Dr. Julie Gard Schnuelle, 59, was discovered in the wooded section of Kiesel Park—known for its trails and dog-walking areas—on Saturday afternoon. Authorities confirmed her death was the result of multiple sharp-force injuries. Her faithful dog was unharmed and promptly returned to her family.
On the following day, law enforcement received a tip about a suspicious individual roughly three miles from the park. They identified the man as Harold Rashad Dabney III, 28, from Montgomery. Investigators quickly linked him to the crime, arresting him and recovering Dr. Schnuelle’s red Ford F-150 pickup, which had been stolen.
Dabney now faces two counts of capital murder—one for an alleged kidnapping and the other for robbery. He is currently held without bond, and prosecutors intend to seek the death penalty.
Community Response & Legacy
Dr. Schnuelle was a respected figure in veterinary medicine. She earned her DVM in 1996, served as a professor until her retirement in 2021, and continued collaborating with the USDA afterward. Her colleagues remember her as a dedicated mentor and vibrant presence—someone whose energy lit up classrooms and barns alike.
In the wake of the tragedy, the community has begun placing flowers and heartfelt messages at Kiesel Park’s entrance. Auburn University and local residents alike are grappling with grief, honoring her memory, and calling for justice.
Quick Overview
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Victim | Dr. Julie Gard Schnuelle, retired Auburn veterinarian and professor |
| Date of Incident | Saturday (September 6, 2025) |
| Location | Kiesel Park, Auburn, AL |
| Cause | Multiple stab wounds (sharp-force trauma) |
| Suspect | Harold Rashad Dabney III, 28, of Montgomery, AL |
| Charges | Two counts of capital murder (kidnapping & robbery) |
| Custody Status | Held without bond at Lee County Jail |
| Prosecution | Death penalty sought |
The death of Dr. Schnuelle has left a profound void in Auburn’s academic and veterinary communities. As investigations unfold, her legacy as an inspiring educator and compassionate mentor continues to resonate. Let me know if you’d like more background on capital murder law in Alabama or information on Dr. Schnuelle’s contributions to veterinary science.
Source: The New York Times
Welcome to the Forum!
Our forum is brand new, and you’re among the first to join! 🎉
Feel free to start a conversation, ask a question, or share your thoughts. Your voice can help shape this community from the ground up!