A horrifying incident unfolded at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville on Monday, as terrified students were placed under lockdown following reports of gunfire on campus.
The tragic event resulted in the deaths of two 22-year-old female students, Kelsie Martin and Hallie Helms, who were found with gunshot wounds at the university’s Wilgus Hall.
American police have described the incident as “targeted and isolated,” stating that they are not seeking anyone else in connection to the students’ deaths.
Emergency services rushed to the scene in Wisconsin after a 911 call was made just before 4pm reporting the gunfire. The university’s Police Chief Joe Hallman stated in the aftermath: “It was determined relatively soon that it was not an active, ongoing threat.”
Students were advised to shelter in place for an hour while the police investigated the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Kelsie Martin, who worked as the Resident Director at Wilgus Hall and was studying psychology, was initially transported to Southwest Health by paramedics. She was later airlifted to UW Hospital, where she was sadly pronounced dead.
Hallie Helms, a resident of Wilgus Hall and an elementary education major, also lost her life in the incident.
Preliminary autopsy results revealed that Kelsie Martin died from a gunshot wound, while Hallie Helms’ gunshot wound was self-inflicted.
Authorities have verified that there is no search for other individuals in relation to the two fatalities and that the families of both victims have been informed.
As a result of the tragic incident, all final exams scheduled for this week have been postponed, with the university providing complimentary counselling sessions to students impacted by the tragedy, which will continue throughout the summer.
University Chancellor Tammy Evetovich has urged students that, following the tragic passing of Helms and Martin: “Please take the time to take care of yourself and others.”
