Full Breakdown
Tragic Shooting of Grandfather and Dog in Georgia Park
12/28/2025, 11:37:35 AM
Incident Overview
On December 21, 2025, a tragic incident unfolded at Simpson Park in Hall County, Georgia, where 70-year-old Terry Loden and his dog, Jesse, were shot dead by 52-year-old Todd Alexander Stalcup. The shooting occurred around 3:30 p.m. during a routine dog walk with Loden's wife, Cheryle Loden. The confrontation began when Jesse got into a fight with Stalcup's dog, prompting Terry to intervene. Witnesses report that Stalcup shot Jesse first and then turned the gun on Terry, who was attempting to separate the dogs.
Eyewitness Accounts
Cheryle Loden recounted the harrowing moments leading up to the shooting. She described how Terry was trying to control their dog when Stalcup allegedly shot Jesse. “He stood up and said, ‘Man, what are you doing?’ And he just shot him,” Cheryle recalled. At the time of the shooting, Terry was on the phone with their granddaughter, who overheard the entire incident. After being shot, Terry looked at Cheryle and said, “I love you. I’m going,” before collapsing.
Charges Against the Suspect
Todd Stalcup was apprehended approximately 15 minutes after the shooting while attempting to flee the scene. He has been charged with malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime. Stalcup is currently being held without bond at the Hall County Jail.
Family and Community Response
The Loden family has described the shooting as “senseless and unprovoked.” Cheryle Loden remembered her husband as an “awesome person” who would “give his last penny and do anything for anybody.” The couple had been married for 50 years, and their loss has deeply affected the local community, particularly as the incident occurred in broad daylight at a public park.
Ongoing Investigation
The Hall County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation into the incident, reviewing witness statements and forensic evidence. As of now, there has been no indication of additional charges related to the death of the dog, Jesse. The community remains in shock over the violent turn of events during what was meant to be a peaceful family outing.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He just looked up at me and said, ‘I love you.’ He said, ‘I’m going.’ I said, ‘No, you’re not,’ and I just sat there talking to 911 the whole time.” — Cheryle Loden, Wife of Terry Loden
- “He was awesome. He’d give his last penny and do anything for anybody. He was an awesome person,” — Cheryle Loden, describing her husband
This tragic event highlights the potential for violence in everyday situations and has raised concerns about public safety in community spaces.
