Kara Welsh, a 21-year-old gymnast from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, died after suffering multiple gunshot wounds on August 30, according to local police reports.
The Whitewater Police Department stated on August 31 that officers discovered Welsh’s body following a call regarding a gunshot victim at an apartment in Whitewater, Wisconsin. They found a 23-year-old male at the scene, who was detained and was known to Welsh. Police noted that an altercation had taken place between the two before the shooting.
Welsh has been confirmed as the shooting victim, and the male suspect has been arrested and is currently held at the Walworth County Jail. The police have indicated that charges including first-degree intentional homicide, endangering safety by the use of a dangerous weapon, and disorderly conduct while armed are being submitted to the Walworth County District Attorney’s Office.
Corey King, the chancellor at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, issued a statement on August 31 expressing condolences over Welsh’s death and sharing details about her contributions to the university. He confirmed that arrangements for a memorial service are forthcoming and announced that the university flag would be flown at half-staff on September 3 in her honor.
Welsh, a native of Plainfield, Illinois, was recognized as a standout member of the Warhawk gymnastics team, capturing an individual national title on the vault in 2023. She was pursuing a degree in management at the College of Business and Economics.
King emphasized the heartbreak within the university community following the news of Welsh’s passing, urging support and compassion among students, faculty, and staff during this difficult time. He also shared information about resources available on campus to assist those affected by her death.
The gymnastics community has expressed its condolences, with USA Gymnastics posting on X on September 1, offering deepest sympathies to Welsh’s family, friends, and teammates. UW-Whitewater head gymnastics coach Jennifer Regan noted, “To put into words the impact Kara had on the Warhawk community is impossible. A powerful athlete, dedicated teammate, and the light in everyone’s dark days, Kara truly lifted each and every one of us up in her time as a Warhawk gymnast. There are no words to describe the void we all feel in our hearts, but Kara’s legacy will live on through Warhawk gymnastics forever.”