University of Wisconsin-Platteville Student Fatally Stabs Dorm Resident Assistant Before Taking Own Life

Two students tragically lost their lives on Monday in an incident involving gunfire at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. Authorities have confirmed that one of the victims sustained a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The occurrence took place around 4 p.m. at Wilgus Hall, a prominent residence for students, where police responded to reports of a disturbance.

Upon arrival, law enforcement officials discovered two female students with gunshot wounds. Kelsie Martin, 22, who served as the assistant resident director of the dormitory, was transported first to Southwest Health and subsequently airlifted to UW Hospital. Unfortunately, she was pronounced dead upon arrival. Hallie Helms, also 22 years old and a resident of the dorm, died at the scene. An autopsy later confirmed that Helms’ wounds were self-inflicted.

Notably, both young women had recently graduated magna cum laude just two days prior to the incident, marking what should have been a celebratory achievement for them and their families. In the aftermath of this tragic event, local law enforcement emphasized that no additional suspects were involved, reiterating that the incident was both targeted and isolated. Investigators continue to explore the specific circumstances that may have led to this heartbreaking situation.

In response to the event, the university has taken immediate action, canceling all exams scheduled for the week. Academic evaluations for the students will now be handled on an individual basis to consider the impact of this tragedy. Counseling services are being extended to all 6,000 students and the broader community at the university.

University Chancellor Tammy Evetovich issued a heartfelt statement urging members of the community to prioritize self-care and support one another during this difficult time. The incident has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit campus, located in southwest Wisconsin near the Iowa border, approximately 25 miles north of Dubuque.

As investigators work to piece together the events leading up to the shooting, the UW-Platteville community grapples with the loss of two promising lives, and efforts commence to foster healing and support among the student body and staff.