Tragedy Strikes UW-Platteville: Two Students Die in Campus Incident

PLATTEVILLE, Wis. — The University of Wisconsin-Platteville confirmed late Monday that two students, Kelsie Martin, 22, of Beloit, and Hallie Helms, 22, of Baraboo, died following an emergency incident at Wilgus Hall, a campus residence building. The Chancellor’s Office identified the victims shortly after 11:20 p.m., though details surrounding their deaths remain under investigation.

Authorities responded to a 911 call around 4 p.m. Monday, prompting a campus-wide shelter-in-place order. UW-Platteville Police Chief Joe Hallman stated the situation was deemed “isolated” with no active threat by 5 p.m., though he declined to specify the nature of the incident or confirm injuries during an evening press conference.

“This remains an ongoing investigation, and we are prioritizing accuracy over haste,” Hallman said, noting external agencies had been enlisted to assist. He confirmed a hospital transport occurred but cited privacy laws in withholding further details. No suspects are in custody.

Wilgus Hall residents, including sophomore Eric Sperduto, described chaotic scenes as law enforcement swarmed the building. Students gathered outside Monday evening, expressing grief and frustration over the lack of immediate information.

“It’s devastating to think families and friends are forever changed by this,” Sperduto said. Others, like sophomore Kirra Kamp, voiced shock: “You never imagine this happening at your own school.”

Chancellor Tammy Evetovich addressed concerns during the press conference, emphasizing support for affected students. Final exams, ongoing since Monday, were canceled through the week, with counseling services extended campus-wide.

Governor Tony Evers acknowledged the incident on social media, urging Wisconsinites to keep the campus community in their thoughts. Meanwhile, Wilgus Hall residents were temporarily relocated, with the university providing alternate housing.

As investigators work to unravel the circumstances, the campus mourns amid unanswered questions. Updates are expected Tuesday as the UW-Platteville community seeks solace and clarity

Key Details:

- Victims: Kelsie Martin and Hallie Helms, both 22. .

- Ongoing: Police investigation continues with external aid; no threat to campus.

Suraay