Authorities have confirmed that a tragic incident involving two University of Wisconsin–Platteville students is being investigated as a murder-suicide.
The students, identified as 22-year-olds Hallie Helms and Kelsie Martin, were found with gunshot wounds in Wilgus Hall, a student residence on campus. According to officials, the shooting likely occurred around 4 p.m. on Monday, May 19.
Helms, an elementary education major, was pronounced dead at the scene. Martin, who was studying psychology and served as an assistant resident director, was taken to Southwest Health before being airlifted to UW Hospital, where she later died.
Preliminary autopsy reports indicate that Martin died from a gunshot wound, while Helms’ fatal injury was self-inflicted, per People. The university confirmed these early findings suggest a murder-suicide and added that no other individuals are believed to be involved.
Both students had graduated just two days earlier on Saturday, May 17, as listed in the university’s commencement program.
In the aftermath of the incident, UW-Platteville canceled final exams for the week and made mental health services available to students, staff, and faculty. In a statement posted to Facebook, the university wrote: “Thank you to all who have reached out to us through messages and offered to support in so many meaningful ways.”
They continued: “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 also acknowledged the tragedy, posting on social media: “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.”