Georgia Grandfather Terry Loden Is Shot and Killed Alongside His Dog During Afternoon Walk at Simpson Park in Gainesville

What was meant to be an ordinary Sunday stroll became a devastating tragedy just days before Christmas. Terry Loden, a 70-year-old grandfather from Georgia, was walking his dog in a public park when his life was violently cut short — all while his wife stood nearby, helpless and horrified.

A Peaceful Park Along Lake Lanier

The incident unfolded Sunday afternoon at Simpson Park in Gainesville, a popular spot tucked along Lake Lanier. The park allows dogs, as long as they’re leashed, and nothing about the day suggested danger. Loden and his wife, Cheryle, were simply enjoying time outdoors with their dog, Jesse.

A Sudden Clash Between Two Dogs

According to investigators, the situation spiraled after Jesse got into a brief altercation with another dog. What might normally end with raised voices or pulled leashes instead took a shocking turn. Authorities say the other dog’s owner, 52-year-old Todd Alexander Stalcup, escalated the moment in the most extreme way possible.

A Gun Drawn in Broad Daylight

Sheriff’s officials say Stalcup pulled out a handgun and shot Jesse. Moments later, as Loden reacted in disbelief, Stalcup allegedly fired again, striking Loden on his right side. The violence happened in seconds, leaving no time for anyone to process what was unfolding.

A Wife’s Terrifying Front-Row Seat

Cheryle Loden told local reporters that her husband had been on the phone with their granddaughter when the chaos erupted. She heard him tell the child to “hang on,” then warn Jesse not to engage with the other dog. Gunshots followed almost immediately.

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She recalled her husband standing up and asking the shooter what he was doing — and then being shot. In those final moments, she says he looked at her and told her he loved her, quietly adding that he was going. She begged him not to give up.

A Call for Help Met With Indifference

As Cheryle dialed 911, she claims Stalcup responded coldly, telling her to go ahead and make the call. She said he paced nearby as her husband lay wounded, then eventually got into his vehicle and drove away, leaving the couple behind.

A Desperate Fight to Save His Life

Cheryle did everything she could, pressing on her husband’s wound until emergency responders arrived. Loden was rushed to a local hospital, but despite efforts to save him, he later died from his injuries.

A Swift Arrest and Serious Charges

Deputies located and arrested Stalcup roughly 15 minutes after the shooting. He now faces multiple charges, including murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime. Jail records show he is being held at the Hall County Jail and is not eligible for bond.

A Family Left Searching for Answers

Loden’s loved ones have described his killing as senseless and completely unprovoked. Cheryle insists there was no physical fight between the men before the shots were fired, saying everything happened far too fast for reason or restraint to prevail.

The family has said they want justice pursued to the fullest extent allowed by law.

Remembering the Man He Was

Those who knew Terry Loden say he was generous to a fault. One of his most recent social media posts was a fundraiser for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, asking friends to donate in place of birthday gifts. His wife summed him up simply, saying he would give his last dollar to help someone else.

A Community Shaken Before the Holidays

As Christmas approached, a family was instead left planning a funeral and grappling with unimaginable loss. What began as a normal walk in a familiar park has become a painful reminder of how quickly everyday moments can turn tragic — and how lives can be changed forever in an instant.