MTSU is morning the loss of associate professor Dr. Ashleigh McKinzie, 41, who was found deceased Thursday morning (Dec. 4, 2025) in DeKalb County.
Thirteenth Judicial District Attorney General Bryant C. Dunaway reports McKinzie’s body was found in the roadway on Smithville Highway in the area of Captain’s Point Road. She had apparent gun shot wounds and a cocked handgun, which belonged to the victim, was lying next to her body.
An adult male identified as 27-year-old Todd C. Stanton was also on scene upon the deputies’ arrival. A handgun determined to belong to Stanton was found on the hood of his truck. He is cooperating with investigators.
DAG Dunaway has requested the TBI join the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office in the shooting investigation.