GAINESVILLE, Ga. — In a shocking incident that has left the community reeling, a man was fatally shot while walking his dog with his wife at a local park just before Christmas. Cheryle Loden described the attack as unprovoked and terrifying, marking a heart-wrenching event that altered their lives forever.
The tragedy unfolded on December 21 at Simpson Park, located on the shores of Lake Lanier. According to Cheryle, the deadly confrontation began when the couple’s dog, Jessie, became involved in a skirmish with another dog. Cheryle reported that Terry Loden, her husband of 50 years, rushed to separate the animals when a man suddenly pulled out a firearm and shot Jessie.
Witnessing the chaos, Terry confronted the shooter, demanding to know what he was doing. In a rapid escalation, the shooter, identified as 52-year-old Todd Stalcup, then turned the gun on Terry, firing once more. The horrific event left Cheryle in disbelief as her husband lay injured on the ground, stating, “There’s no doubt in my mind how much he loved me.”
Following the shooting, Cheryle attempted to call for help. However, she recounted that Stalcup simply replied, “Yeah, you do that,” before fleeing the scene. Paramedics arrived shortly after, but Cheryle was desperately trying to convince her husband to hold on. Although deputies apprehended Stalcup not far from the park, the emotional impact of the incident has been profound for Cheryle and the community.
Terry Loden was remembered as a compassionate and talented individual who enjoyed playing guitar and spending time with family, including his grandchildren. The couple often walked their dogs without leashes, a habit they both enjoyed as they spent time outdoors. Cheryle spoke about her husband’s deep love for their family and animals, recounting how they once took in a stray dog that had been injured.
In the aftermath, a small memorial has been created at the park, featuring a Christmas tree with a tag that reads “Dog Dad,” a poignant reminder of Terry’s character and the love he shared. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support Cheryle as she navigates her grief and seeks stability during this difficult time.
Cheryle lamented the loss of her partner, who expressed daily his inability to imagine life without her. The couple’s bond, marked by mutual affection and deep commitment, serves as a testament to their decades together. As the community mourns the loss of Terry Loden, many are left grappling with the senselessness of the violence that took him away.