Authorities in Wisconsin are investigating the heartbreaking deaths of two young women from the University of Wisconsin–Platteville in what is now being considered a murder-suicide.
On the afternoon of Monday, May 19, campus police responded to a distressing scene inside Wilgus Hall, a student residence, where they found 22-year-olds Hallie Helms and Kelsie Martin suffering from gunshot wounds. Helms, an elementary education major, was declared dead at the scene. Martin, who had studied psychology and served as an assistant resident director, was transported to Southwest Health and later airlifted to UW Hospital in Madison. Despite medical efforts, she succumbed to her injuries.
Initial findings from autopsies revealed a deeply unsettling conclusion: Martin’s fatal injury was the result of a gunshot wound, while Helms’ wound was determined to be self-inflicted. Investigators believe the shooting took place around 4 p.m. and are treating the case as a murder-suicide. According to the university, there is no indication that any other individuals were involved.
The two students had just celebrated their graduation two days prior, on May 17, with their names appearing in the spring commencement program. What should have been a time of celebration and future plans instead gave way to grief, shock, and unanswered questions.
In the wake of the tragedy, UW–Platteville made the difficult decision to cancel final exams for the remainder of the week and issued an immediate response to support the emotional well-being of its community. Counseling services were extended to students, faculty, and staff grappling with the sudden loss.
The university posted a statement on social media thanking the public for their compassion:
“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 addressed the tragedy publicly:
“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.”
As authorities continue to investigate, they are working to establish a fuller understanding of the relationship between the two women, the events leading up to the shooting, and any potential warning signs that may have preceded this devastating loss.
In a community that prides itself on connection and care, the deaths of Hallie Helms and Kelsie Martin have left a painful void — one that has prompted both sorrow and reflection on the importance of mental health, campus safety, and compassion in times of crisis.
