Two female students at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville were discovered dead in their dorm room in what authorities believe to be a murder-suicide. The victims, Kelsie Martin and Hallie Helms, both 22, were found with gunshot wounds on Monday.
Helms, who was studying elementary education, was declared dead at the scene. Martin, a psychology major and assistant resident director, succumbed to her injuries after being airlifted to a University of Wisconsin hospital, according to a university statement released Tuesday night.
Preliminary autopsy results indicated that Helms died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Police Department received a 911 call about an incident at Wilgus Hall, a dormitory on campus, shortly before 4 p.m. on Monday, according to Police Chief Joe Hallman.
A shelter-in-place order was issued for the dormitory and was lifted just after 5 p.m. Students were observed fleeing from the dormitory on Monday afternoon, and a significant law enforcement presence was noted on campus.
Eric Sperduto, a resident of Wilgus Hall, expressed his shock and sadness at the incident. He empathized with the families and friends of the victims and acknowledged the profound impact the event would have on fellow students.
The university community mourns the loss of Martin, from Beloit, Wisconsin, and Helms, from Baraboo, Wisconsin. UW-Platteville Chancellor Tammy Evetovich issued a statement urging students to take care of themselves and each other during this difficult time.
In response to the tragedy, final exams have been canceled at the university. According to the university statement, counseling services are being offered this week for members of the community. The University of Wisconsin-Platteville and the university’s police department have yet to respond to requests for comment.