Honoree Fleming: Former Vermont university dean found shot to death near campus

In a shocking and tragic turn of events, Honoree Fleming, a retired dean of education at Vermont State University’s Castleton Campus, was found shot in the head on a nearby hiking trail. The beloved educator, known for her dedication to her students and her esteemed academic career, met a horrifying end that has left the community in shock and mourning.

The 77-year-old retired dean, who was also the wife of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Ron Powers, was discovered lifeless less than an hour after she was believed to have entered the trail near campus on a Thursday (October 7, 2023)evening. A medical examiner later confirmed that her death was the result of a gunshot wound, sending shockwaves throughout the tight-knit Vermont community.

As of the time of reporting, no one has been arrested in connection with this heinous crime. The motive behind the killing remains a mystery, leaving authorities to grapple with the unsettling question of whether this was a random act of violence or a targeted attack.

Vermont State Police have issued a public warning, describing the suspect as armed and dangerous, and have appealed to the community for assistance. The authorities urge everyone to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or individuals to the Vermont State Police at 802-773-9101. Anonymous tips can also be submitted online.

In their quest for justice, investigators are searching for a “person of interest” described as a male with short red hair, standing approximately 5 feet, 10 inches tall. He was last seen wearing a dark gray T-shirt and carrying a black backpack.

The investigation is now turning to local businesses and members of the public who may have surveillance footage that could provide valuable information in solving this tragic case.

During a news conference held on Monday (October 9, 2023), Vermont State Police’s Dan Trudeau revealed that the department has received over 200 tips regarding Honoree Fleming’s murder. He emphasized the importance of these leads, stating that “every tip is better than no tip.” Search and rescue teams have been tirelessly combing the trail area in search of evidence, employing a blend of traditional and modern investigative techniques.

Trudeau also stressed the importance of community vigilance, although it remains uncertain whether the community is at further risk. This shocking crime has left many on edge, wondering if there is more danger lurking in the shadows.

In the wake of this tragedy, the Castleton Campus of Vermont State University opened its doors on Monday to provide a supportive environment for those affected. Students were excused from class, with regular classes set to resume on Tuesday (October 10, 2023).

The school, in a heartfelt statement posted on Facebook, expressed its condolences and highlighted Honoree Fleming’s significant contributions to education. She had been a beloved teacher at the university, touching the lives of numerous students with her teachings and research. She was also a faculty member at Trinity College, Middlebury College, and the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.

Honoree Fleming resided in Castleton with her husband, Ron Powers, a Pulitzer Prize-winning and New York Times bestselling author, known for his work “Flags of Our Fathers,” which delved into the stories of those involved in the iconic flag-raising during the 1945 Battle of Iwo Jima. Powers also earned a Pulitzer Prize in 1973.

The school expressed its deepest sympathies to Ron Powers, family, and friends, emphasizing the profound loss that has been felt by the Castleton campus and the entire Vermont State University community.