The Chancellor’s Office at UW-Platteville confirmed Monday night that two students died following an emergency incident at a campus dormitory earlier in the day.
The victims have been identified as 22-year-old Kelsie Martin of Beloit, Wisconsin, and 22-year-old Hallie Helms of Baraboo, Wisconsin. Both individuals were recent graduates of UW-Platteville.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of death, but multiple students reported hearing what sounded like “at least two gunshots” shortly before an emergency alert was issued at around 4:00 p.m. Monday.
That initial message notified students of an “emergency situation” on campus, instructing them to “shelter in place and avoid the area near Wilgus Hall,” a student residence building.
Just after 5:00 p.m., the university issued a follow-up alert assuring students there was “no active threat to the campus community,” although emergency responders remained on site. The message continued to urge everyone to “continue avoiding the area around Wilgus Hall.”
A university spokesperson later confirmed the incident was a targeted and isolated event between the two individuals. The investigation is ongoing and is being led jointly by Platteville Police and UW-Platteville Police.
In response to the tragedy, the university announced the cancellation of all remaining final exams and assessments for the week. However, the campus will stay open, allowing students to access mental health support through Mantra’s Care Hub.
(WISN)
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