Police have released horrific details after two students at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville were found dead.
The tragic incident unfolded on Monday, May 19, at approximately 4PM local time in Wilgus Hall, an on-campus dormitory.
University officials identified the victims as Hallie Helms and Kelsie Martin, both 22 years old, NBC News reported.
Helms, an elementary education major from Baraboo, Wisconsin, was pronounced dead at the scene. Martin, a psychology major from Beloit, Wisconsin, and an assistant resident director, was airlifted to a UW hospital, where she later died from her injuries.
According to preliminary autopsy results, Martin passed away from a gunshot wound, while Helms died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
“All indications at this time from the preliminary autopsy suggest a murder-suicide,” the university stated, adding that no other individuals are believed to have been involved, per WFIN.
A 911 call was made shortly before 4PM on Monday, prompting a swift response from campus and local law enforcement. A shelter-in-place order was issued for the dormitory but lifted shortly after 5PM, according to The New York Post.
Students were seen running from the area, and a heavy police presence remained on campus throughout the afternoon.
“It’s just really sad and just sad to think about the families that are affected by this and people that were their friends,” said Eric Sperduto, a resident of Wilgus Hall. “Students just like me that are changed now.”
Both Helms and Martin had just celebrated their graduation two days earlier on Saturday, May 17. The university’s graduation program lists their respective degrees in elementary education and psychology.
Chancellor Tammy Evetovich expressed condolences in a public statement: “Please take the time to take care of yourself and others.”
Final exams have been canceled for the remainder of the week, and counseling services have been made available to support the grieving campus community.
The university shared its gratitude for the community's support via 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.”
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers acknowledged the tragedy in his own post: “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.”
Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragedy.