Two students were found with gunshot wounds inside a dorm room at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville.
Authorities believe it was a murder-suicide, but they’re still figuring out exactly what happened.
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The students were Hallie Helms and Kelsie Martin, both 22 years old. They were found in Wilgus Hall, one of the university’s residence buildings.
Investigators think the incident happened on Monday, May 19, around 4 p.m., but the full timeline is still being pieced together.
The tragedy struck with a fatal discovery in a dorm room
The school confirmed to the press that both students were found in Wilgus Hall with gunshot wounds. It was a shocking scene.
Both victims were young students with promising futures
Hallie Helms was studying elementary education. She passed away at the scene.
Kelsie Martin, who was majoring in psychology and also working as an assistant resident director, was rushed to Southwest Health, then flown to UW hospital. Sadly, she didn’t make it.
The university said both of them had just graduated that Saturday. Hallie with her teaching degree, and Kelsie with her psychology degree.
Authorities believe it was a murder-suicide
Officials believe what happened was a murder-suicide.
The school said in a statement, “All indications at this time from the preliminary autopsy suggest a murder-suicide.”
They also mentioned that no one else seems to have been involved.
Autopsy results shed light on what happened
According to the first autopsy reports, Martin died from a gunshot wound.
And Helms died from what looked like a self-inflicted gunshot.
The exact timeline remains unclear
Investigators still aren’t sure exactly how it all played out.
But they believe the shooting happened on Monday, May 19, sometime around 4 in the afternoon.
The university responded with compassion and support
After everything happened, the university posted on Facebook: “Thank you to all who have reached out to us through messages and offered to support in so many meaningful ways.
“We are overwhelmed by your kindness. We are a close community, and this outpouring of care is a powerful reminder of who we are. We do not take it for granted. #PioneerStrong.”
Final exams were canceled for the rest of the week.
The school also reminded students and staff that counseling services are available if they need to talk.
The state’s governor acknowledged the tragedy
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers posted on Facebook too. He said, “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.”
