Unbelievable Daylight Killing in “Safe” Community

Yellow crime scene tape blocking grassy area.

A shocking crime in a supposedly safe public park has reignited public fears over crime, personal safety, and the erosion of community trust that many believe began with years of lax law enforcement and misguided priorities.

Story Highlights

A retired Auburn University professor was brutally killed in daylight while walking her dog in a public park.
The suspect, arrested within a day, faces two counts of capital murder amid calls for swift justice.
This rare act of violence has deeply shaken Auburn’s university town, raising questions about public safety and security policies.
Officials and community leaders emphasize the need for vigilance and potential changes to park security and law enforcement practices.

Respected Professor Killed in Broad Daylight at Auburn Park

On September 6, 2025, Dr. Julie Gard Schnuelle, a 59-year-old retired veterinary professor from Auburn University, was attacked and killed while walking her dog in Kiesel Park, Auburn, Alabama. The attack occurred during daylight hours in a popular community space, stunning residents who have long considered Auburn a safe and peaceful university town. The suspect, Harold Rashad Dabney III, 28, was arrested the next day after being found in possession of Schnuelle’s stolen vehicle. Authorities charged Dabney with two counts of capital murder as the community grappled with the senseless loss of a respected educator.

Community Shaken: Safety Concerns and Emotional Fallout

Kiesel Park, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and frequent visitors, has never seen violence of this magnitude. This incident has deeply unsettled park users, Auburn University affiliates, and local families, many of whom now question the reliability of public safety measures. The park was temporarily closed for investigation, and the heightened police presence has only partially reassured residents. Calls for increased surveillance and tougher penalties for violent crime have grown louder as citizens demand that their right to feel safe in public spaces be restored. Meanwhile, Schnuelle’s dog was found unharmed, a small relief amid widespread grief.

Swift Law Enforcement Response and Search for Motive

Local police responded quickly, arresting Dabney within 24 hours of the crime. Schnuelle’s vehicle was recovered, but authorities have not disclosed the motive behind the attack, fueling public speculation and frustration. The Lee County District Attorney has declined to release further details, citing an ongoing investigation. While the prompt arrest demonstrates an effective police response, community members and conservative observers remain concerned that broader policy failures—such as leniency towards crime and insufficient deterrents—may have contributed to an environment where such violence could occur, even in broad daylight.

Legacy of the Victim and the University’s Role

Dr. Schnuelle was a highly regarded educator who spent nearly two decades at Auburn University’s College of Veterinary Medicine before retiring in 2021. University officials and former students have described her as a cherished mentor and a pillar of the academic community. Auburn University has issued public condolences and highlighted Schnuelle’s legacy, while also offering support to grieving colleagues and students. The murder has prompted renewed calls from local leaders and Senator Tommy Tuberville for stronger law enforcement and a renewed focus on restoring public safety and trust.

Policy Implications and the Path Forward

This tragedy has intensified demands for policy changes to protect community spaces and uphold the values of safety and order that many feel have been neglected. Proposals under discussion include increased park security, expanded police patrols, and legislative attention to violent crime. Residents and university stakeholders are pushing for transparency in the ongoing investigation and for policies that prioritize the safety of law-abiding citizens. The case underscores the lasting consequences of crime for families, educators, and communities—and the critical need for decisive action from both local and state authorities to prevent similar tragedies in the future.