Tragedy at UW-Platteville: two students found dead in targeted incident
Two students at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville were found dead in a targeted and isolated incident. Authorities have locked down the campus and canceled exams as the investigation continues.
The University of Wisconsin-Platteville declared an emergency after two students, were found dead in what authorities are calling a "targeted and isolated" incident.
The discovery led to an immediate shelter-in-place order around Wilgus Hall on May 19.
What happened at UW-Platteville?
While details are still very scarce, UW-Platteville Chancellor Dr. Tammy Evetovich later revealed the identity of the students who were found dead in an email, Kelsie Martin and Hallie Helms, both aged 22. "This incident was a targeted and isolated event between the two individuals. Families of the students have been notified."
According to the UW Police Department (UWPD) Chief Joe Hallman, the university has brought in outside resources to make sure they "get it right". Additionally, he stated that they were not being vague on purpose, after the lack of details sent social media into a rumor spiral.
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Campus safety concerns across U.S. universities
Sadly, this is not the first event this year in which students at universities' campus have had their day interrupted because of a shooting. In mid-April, at the University of Florida, there were six students injured and 2 dead, and at the University of Illinois, where a student resulted injured.
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers addresses the UW-Platteville incident on social media. Photo: Tony Evers Facebook
For now, final exams are canceled and, UWPD is scheduled to hold another press conference on May 20.
