Retired Auburn University professor killed in assault at park; search for truck underway

Dr. Julie Gard Schnuelle – Photo from Auburn University

Auburn University has confirmed that a retired professor was the victim of a fatal assault at Kiesel Park as the search for a pickup truck is underway.

The university released this statement about the victim:

“Julie Gard Schnuelle, DVM, Ph.D., was a beloved member of the Auburn University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and the Auburn family. She served as a faculty member in the Department of Clinical Sciences in the Large Animal/Food Animal section from 2003 to 2021, when she retired as a professor emerita.

“Auburn sends our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Dr. Gard Schnuelle during this unimaginably difficult time.”

Yesterday, Auburn police say they were called to Kiesel Park in the 500 block of Chadwick Lane to investigate a report of a body being found.

Officers found the body of Dr. Gard Schnuelle in some woods at the park. They say she had injuries indicating the death was caused by an assault. She was 59 years old.

Police say a red Ford F-150 was discovered missing from an area near the crime scene. Police are requesting any sightings of the pickup truck to be reported to them.

Auburn police want to find this red Ford F-150 pickup truck – Photo from Auburn Police Department

Police say Kiesel Park will be closed for the rest of the weekend during the early stages of their investigation.

If you have information about this fatal assault, call the Auburn Police Department at (334) 501-3100. Information can also be reported by calling or texting the tip line at (334) 246-1391 or by emailing police@auburnalabama.org.