Two students from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville died on May 19, 2025, in what authorities have identified as a targeted and isolated shooting incident at Wilgus Hall, a residence hall accommodating roughly 230 students.
Kelsie Martin, 22, from Beloit, Wisconsin, and Hallie Helms, 22, from Baraboo, Wisconsin, were the sole participants in the incident that took place just before 4:00 p.m. that Monday. Martin was an assistant resident director at Wilgus Hall, majoring in psychology, while Helms was a resident studying elementary education.
Emergency responders discovered both students with gunshot wounds inside the dorm. Martin was initially transported to Southwest Health, then airlifted to the University of Wisconsin Hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries. Preliminary autopsy reports from the UW-Platteville Police Department confirmed a gunshot wound as the cause of Martin’s death.
Helms was declared dead at the scene, with preliminary autopsy results indicating a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The investigation concluded that no other individuals were involved in what has been termed a murder-suicide.
UW-Platteville Police Chief Joseph Hallman reported that a 911 call was made regarding the situation at Wilgus Hall just before 4:00 p.m. Campus police enacted safety protocols and issued a shelter-in-place order. This order was lifted shortly after 5:00 p.m. once the incident was deemed isolated and posed no further threat.
Eric Sperduto, a sophomore resident of Wilgus Hall, witnessed the aftermath, observing two female students fleeing the building and law enforcement entering. “It’s just really sad and just sad to think about the families that are affected by this,” he told NBC affiliate WMTV of Madison, Wisconsin.
Both students had recently achieved significant academic milestones. Helms had received her education degree during commencement ceremonies on May 17, 2025. Martin also graduated that day, earning a summa cum laude degree in psychology, further deepening the emotional impact on the campus community.
The university community showed strong support in the aftermath. Chancellor Tammy Evetovich expressed sorrow over the losses and stressed the institution’s focus on community well-being. Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers stated he had been briefed and would stay in close contact with university officials.
University officials acted quickly to support affected students and faculty. Provost Laura Reynolds announced the cancellation of all remaining exams for the week at both UW-Platteville and UW-Baraboo campuses, citing the university’s close-knit community as the reason.
Support resources were established for the campus community. University Counseling offered triage services from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Tuesday through Friday. A toll-free support line staffed by mental health professionals was also activated at 844-602-6680 or 720-272-0004.
Students can access additional support through Mantra’s Care Hub, which is available 24/7. The university also created a frequently asked questions page on its website to address concerns and provide updates.
Wilgus Hall, the site of the incident, typically hosts the Women’s Wellness and Education Interest Communities. Following the incident, students were advised to avoid the building while emergency responders were present.
The investigation continues under the direction of the UW-Platteville Police Department, with assistance from external law enforcement. Chief Hallman emphasized the importance of a thorough investigation and urged anyone with information to contact the department at 608-342-1584.
The incident has led to discussions about transparency in the investigation. Bill Lueders, president of the Wisconsin Freedom of Information Council, raised concerns about the secrecy surrounding the case, arguing for public access to basic information.
Despite the incident’s impact, university officials confirmed that the campus remains open for students seeking counseling and other resources. The focus remains on providing comprehensive care for all affected individuals.
The University of Wisconsin-Platteville, located in Grant County, Wisconsin, approximately 25 miles from Dubuque, Iowa, serves over 6,000 students across its main and satellite campuses. The institution spans 821 acres and includes 20 academic and student services buildings, along with 13 residential facilities.
