(NewsNation) — A retired Auburn University professor was killed after taking her dog for a walk, according to local NewsNation affiliate WRBL.
Dr. Julie Gard Schnuelle, 59, was walking her dog Saturday morning in Kiesel Park, Auburn’s largest public green space, when she was attacked.
Officers were called to the scene after someone reported the woman’s body in a wooded area of the park. Schnuelle was pronounced dead at the scene, and it was confirmed that her injuries were consistent with those produced by a sharp object, potentially a knife.
Harold Rashad Dabney III has been arrested and charged with two counts of capital murder in connection with the death of Schnuelle.
Though there was just one victim, Dabney III faces two counts of capital murder as Alabama law allows multiple counts if prosecutors believe the killing meets various aggravating factors.
Reports also suggest the suspect stole Schnuelle’s red Ford F-150 truck following the attack. Police recovered the vehicle abandoned in a nearby pumpkin patch.
Dr. Schnuelle was a beloved retired professor of Large Animal Medicine at Auburn University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.