Two Students Confirmed Dead in UW-Platteville Student Deaths

University officials have confirmed the deaths of two female students at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville following what they described as a “targeted and isolated” incident at Wilgus Hall residence on Monday. The university community is mourning as authorities continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.

Victims Identified as Recent Graduates

The university has identified the deceased as Kelsie Martin, 22, of Beloit, Wisconsin, and Hallie Helms, 22, of Baraboo, Wisconsin. According to graduation records, both women had recently completed their degrees at UW-Platteville, with Helms receiving an elementary education degree and Martin graduating with a psychology degree just two days before the incident.

“This incident was a targeted and isolated event between the two individuals,” the university stated in an email sent to the campus community late Monday night. “Families of the students have been notified.”

Investigation Continues as Campus Mourns

According to UW-Platteville Police Chief Joseph Hallman, officers responded to a 911 call at approximately 4 p.m. Monday regarding an incident at Wilgus Hall. A temporary shelter-in-place order was issued for about an hour while authorities secured the scene.

While officials have been cautious about releasing specific details due to the ongoing investigation, sources on campus reported that the incident occurred around 4 p.m., with some witnesses describing hearing what sounded like a gunshot. Emergency dispatch audio appeared to reference a shooting, though this has not been officially confirmed by authorities.

The Wisconsin Department of Criminal Investigation is assisting campus police with the investigation. Officials have emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the campus community, describing the incident as “isolated and targeted.”

University Cancels Finals, Offers Support Services

In response to the tragedy, UW-Platteville has canceled final exams for the remainder of the week at both the Platteville and Baraboo campuses. Dr. Laura Reynolds, UW-Platteville provost and vice chancellor of academic affairs, explained the decision: “Both the faculty and staff as well as the students need time to be together, need time to work through this together.”

The university has expanded counseling services for students, faculty, and staff affected by the tragedy. Counseling is available from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday at the university counseling center.

Community Comes Together in Grief

The Platteville community has rallied to support those affected by the tragedy. Local churches opened their doors Monday evening for prayer services and community gatherings. Rolling Hills Church hosted approximately 140 people from various faiths for a community prayer service.

Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers released a statement Monday night expressing his concern: “I’ve been briefed on the situation at UW-Platteville, and we will continue to remain in close contact with university officials. As we await more information, please keep UW-Platteville students, faculty, staff, and the greater Platteville community in your thoughts.”

Campus Safety Information

UW-Platteville, a campus of approximately 6,400 students located in Wisconsin’s southwest corner, has emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to campus safety. Wilgus Hall, where the incident occurred, accommodates approximately 230 residents and is one of 10 residence halls on campus.

The university has arranged temporary housing at Brockert Hall for students displaced from Wilgus Hall. Campus security measures remain in place, with an increased police presence on campus as a precautionary measure.

Mental Health and Support Resources

In addition to the university’s counseling services, several community resources are available to those affected by this tragedy:

Ongoing Updates

University officials have indicated they will provide additional information as the investigation progresses. A joint statement from University Police and the Department of Criminal Investigation is expected to be released with further details about the incident.

The university has created a dedicated webpage for updates and information regarding this incident, including details about memorial services, counseling resources, and academic accommodations for affected students.