Dr. Julie Gard Schnuelle Obituary, Death – Authorities have identified the woman found dead in Kiesel Park as Dr. Julie Gard Schnuelle, a longtime Auburn University professor. Lee County Coroner Daniel Sexton confirmed on Sunday that Schnuelle, 59, was the victim of what police are describing as a deadly assault.
Dr. Schnuelle was a respected academic in Auburn University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, where she served as a full professor in the Department of Clinical Sciences. Her background was extensive: she earned her veterinary degree at Auburn University, studied biology at the University of Alabama in Birmingham, and later obtained a Ph.D. in biomedical sciences from Auburn. Over her career, she became recognized for her expertise in dairy production, bovine embryology, and canine reproduction. Colleagues and students described her as a passionate educator and researcher, dedicated to advancing both veterinary science and the training of future veterinarians.
University officials acknowledged her death and said a formal statement would be shared with the community, expressing their condolences and highlighting her contributions to Auburn and the broader field of veterinary medicine.
Police said they were called to Kiesel Park, located in the 500 block of Chadwick Lane, around 2 p.m. on Saturday after receiving a 911 call about a person who appeared lifeless. Responding officers discovered Schnuelle’s body in a wooded section of the park. Investigators determined she had suffered injuries consistent with an assault, though officials have not released details about the manner of her death.
Adding to the concerns, police reported that a red Ford F-150 was missing from an area close to the crime scene. Authorities have not confirmed whether the vehicle belonged to Schnuelle or if it is directly connected to the case, but they are actively seeking information from the public.
Sexton stated that the victim’s body will be transported to the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences in Montgomery for a full autopsy, which will provide more clarity on the exact cause of death. Until then, investigators are treating the case as a homicide.
Kiesel Park, a popular public space in Auburn known for its trails and open areas, will remain closed throughout the weekend as the investigation continues. Police are urging residents to avoid the area and remain vigilant while detectives gather evidence.
Authorities are appealing to the public for assistance in locating the missing vehicle or providing any information that may help identify the suspect responsible for Schnuelle’s death. Tips can be submitted by calling Auburn Police at 334-501-3100, the department’s tip line at 334-226-1391, or by emailing police@auburnalabama.org.
The tragic loss of Dr. Schnuelle has left both Auburn University and the local community in shock. Her decades of academic work and mentorship left a lasting mark on countless students and colleagues. As police press forward with their investigation, the community now waits for answers while mourning the sudden and violent death of a woman known for her dedication to science, education, and animal health.
