Ashleigh E. McKinzie, 41, an associate professor of sociology at Middle Tennessee State University, was found dead on December 4, 2025, along Smithville Highway near Captain’s Point Road in DeKalb County, Tennessee. The cause of death was multiple gunshot wounds. Deputies discovered her in the roadway with her own loaded, cocked handgun lying next to her body.

Also at the scene was 27-year-old Todd C. Stanton; a handgun belonging to Stanton was found on the hood of his truck. Stanton is reported to be cooperating with investigators. The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation are handling the case, and no criminal charges have been filed to date.

Dr. McKinzie had been on the MTSU faculty since 2017 and taught and researched family violence; the university has offered counseling to students and staff grieving her loss. Does anyone have information about Dr. McKinzie’s movements or contacts in DeKalb County on the morning of December 4?