Kara Welsh, a 21-year-old gymnast from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, was shot and killed on August 30, according to local police. Authorities reported that they arrived at an apartment in Whitewater, Wisconsin, after receiving notice of an individual with a gunshot wound, where they found Welsh deceased from multiple gunshot wounds.
The Whitewater Police Department later apprehended a 23-year-old male, who was known to Welsh, and noted that an altercation had occurred between them prior to the shooting. The suspect is currently being held at the Walworth County Jail, facing charges that include first-degree intentional homicide, endangering safety with a dangerous weapon, and disorderly conduct while armed.
Corey King, the chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, shared news of Welsh’s passing along with reflections on her life. He announced that a memorial service would be organized and that the university flag would be flown at half-staff on September 3 in her honor.
Welsh, who hailed from Plainfield, Illinois, was a distinguished member of the Warhawk gymnastics team, winning an individual national title on the vault in 2023. She was pursuing a management degree at the university’s College of Business and Economics.
King expressed the sorrow felt throughout the university community, emphasizing the need for support as everyone processes and grieves the loss. He also provided information regarding available resources for students, faculty, and staff in the wake of this tragedy.
The gymnastics community has extended its condolences, with USA Gymnastics expressing their sympathies on social media. UW-Whitewater head gymnastics coach Jennifer Regan highlighted the profound impact Welsh had on the team, describing her as a powerful athlete and a source of light for many. Regan noted that although there are no words to capture the grief felt, Welsh’s legacy will endure within the Warhawk gymnastics program.