PLATTEVILLE, Wis. MURDER-SUICIDE— The University of Wisconsin-Platteville community is grieving the tragic loss of two students following a murder-suicide that occurred Monday in Wilgus Hall. The two were roommates, and one of them graduated Saturday.
In an email sent to the university community, Chancellor Dr. Tammy Evetovich identified the victims as Kelsie Martin, 22, of Beloit, Wisconsin, and Hallie Helms, 22, of Baraboo, Wisconsin. Both were seniors at UW-Platteville and were deeply involved in campus life.
“It is with deep sadness that we mourn the loss of two UW-Platteville students, Kelsie Martin and Hallie Helms,” Chancellor Evetovich wrote. “This incident was a targeted and isolated event between the two individuals. Families of the students have been notified.”
The incident remains under active investigation by law enforcement. Authorities have released limited information but confirmed that there is no ongoing threat to the campus community.
Kelsie Martin had just celebrated a milestone, graduating from UW-Platteville two days prior to the incident. She served as the resident director of Wilgus Hall during the 2024 academic year and was well known for her leadership, kindness, and dedication to student life.
Hallie Helms, also 22, was a student from Baraboo who was pursuing her academic goals at UW-Platteville. Friends and peers describe her as compassionate, bright, and deeply engaged in her studies and community.
The university has made counseling and support services available to students and staff as the campus comes to terms with this loss. Vigils and remembrance gatherings are being planned in honor of both students.
More information will be shared by authorities as the investigation continues.
The UW-Platteville community is encouraged to support one another during this difficult time and to keep the families of Kelsie Martin and Hallie Helms in their thoughts.
