Two students from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville lost their lives on May 19, 2025, in what authorities have described as a targeted and isolated shooting incident at Wilgus Hall, an on-campus residence housing around 230 students.
Kelsie Martin, 22, from Beloit, Wisconsin, and Hallie Helms, 22, from Baraboo, Wisconsin, were the sole individuals involved in the event that took place shortly before 4:00 p.m. on Monday. Martin was an assistant resident director at Wilgus Hall, majoring in psychology, while Helms, a resident there, was studying elementary education.
Emergency services discovered both students with gunshot wounds within the residence hall. Martin was first taken to Southwest Health and then airlifted via Med-Flight to the University of Wisconsin Hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Preliminary autopsy results from the UW-Platteville Police Department indicated Martin’s death was due to a gunshot wound.
Helms was found dead at the scene, with preliminary autopsy results suggesting a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The investigation has determined that no others were involved in the murder-suicide.
UW-Platteville Police Chief Joseph Hallman stated that a 911 call was received just before 4:00 p.m. reporting a situation at Wilgus Hall. Campus police activated safety protocols and issued a shelter-in-place order, which was lifted shortly after 5:00 p.m. once the incident was deemed isolated and no longer a threat to campus safety.
Eric Sperduto, a sophomore residing in Wilgus Hall, witnessed the aftermath. He saw two female students fleeing the building post 4:00 p.m. and law enforcement entering. “It’s just really sad and just sad to think about the families that are affected by this,” Sperduto told NBC affiliate WMTV of Madison, Wisconsin.
Both students had recently reached significant academic milestones. Helms had obtained her education degree during ceremonies on May 18, 2025, just a day prior to the incident. Martin was set to graduate with a forensic science degree in the summer term. The proximity of the incident to graduation has had an emotional impact on the campus community.
The university community responded with substantial support. Chancellor Tammy Evetovich expressed deep sadness over the loss and emphasized the institution’s focus on community well-being. Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers issued a statement after being briefed on the situation, indicating continued communication with university officials.
University administrators acted swiftly to support students and faculty. Provost and Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs Laura Reynolds announced the cancellation of remaining final exams for the week at both UW-Platteville and UW-Baraboo campuses, stating this was in the best interest of the community.
Multiple support resources were established for the campus community. University Counseling began offering triage counseling services from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Tuesday through Friday. Additionally, a toll-free emotional support line was activated at 844-602-6680 or 720-272-0004, available overnight with mental health professionals.
Students can also access support through Mantra’s Care Hub, available at any time for assistance. The university created a frequently asked questions page on its website to address concerns and provide updated information.
Wilgus Hall, the incident location, typically houses the Women’s Wellness Interest Community and the Education Interest Community. It hosts an annual Women’s Weekend and collaborates with McGregor Hall for programming throughout the academic year. University officials requested students avoid the building while emergency responders were on scene.
The investigation continues under the UW-Platteville Police Department with assistance from external law enforcement agencies. Chief Hallman emphasized the importance of a thorough investigation and requested anyone with information to contact them at 608-342-1584.
The incident has raised questions about transparency in the investigation. Bill Lueders, president of the Wisconsin Freedom of Information Council, expressed concern over what he called excessive secrecy, arguing that the public deserves to know basic information, especially involving public officials.
Despite the significant impact on the campus, officials confirmed that the university remains open for those who wish to access counseling and support resources. The focus is on providing comprehensive care for students, faculty, and staff as they process the loss of two community members.
The University of Wisconsin-Platteville, located in Grant County, about 25 miles from Dubuque, Iowa, serves over 6,000 students across its main campus and satellite locations. The institution spans over 2,024 acres and includes 20 academic and student services buildings, along with 13 residential facilities.
