Man detained in UW-Whitewater gymnast Kara Welsh’s death
UW-Whitewater gymnast Kara Welsh killed; suspect detained
A man has been detained in connection with the shooting death of Kara Welsh, a gymnast from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. Welsh was killed this weekend in an off-campus apartment, just days before the fall semester’s commencement.
Chancellor Corey King of UW-Whitewater confirmed Welsh’s death on Friday in a message to the school community, describing her as an exceptional member of the Warhawk gymnastics team. Welsh, 21, hailed from Plainfield, Illinois, and was a rising senior majoring in business management. She recently secured the national title on the vault at the National Collegiate Gymnastics Association Championship, according to the school’s athletic department.
King noted the profound impact of Welsh’s death on the university community in his message, sent three days before classes were set to begin. “It is a time when we are all called upon to support one another, to process, and to grieve,” King stated.
College freshman/gymnast Kara Welsh at the University Of Whitewater in Wisconsin, was shot to death by a 23 year old male that she was reportedly dating.
Despite the suspect being taken into custody, no information about the murderer has been released anywhere. What’s going on? pic.twitter.com/uyUlM2H5fF
— Steven Steele (@MrStevenSteele) September 2, 2024
Police responded to an apartment off Main Street in Whitewater around midnight on Friday after receiving a report of a shooting. Upon arrival, officers found Welsh with multiple gunshot wounds. A 23-year-old man, who was acquainted with Welsh, was also present at the scene.
The investigation revealed that an altercation between the two preceded the shooting, though the nature of their relationship was not detailed. The suspect, whose identity remains undisclosed, was arrested and is being held at the Walworth County Jail. Police have recommended charges of first-degree homicide, endangering safety with a dangerous weapon, and disorderly conduct while armed to the Walworth County District Attorney’s Office.
The athletic department praised Welsh as a standout on the vault and noted her excellence in high-pressure situations. She held four of the top eight scores in the vault in the history of the school’s gymnastics programme.
Jennifer Regan, the head coach of women’s gymnastics at UW-Whitewater, expressed the immense impact Welsh had on the Warhawk community. “Kara was a powerful athlete, dedicated teammate, and the light in everyone’s dark days. Her legacy will endure through Warhawk gymnastics forever,” Regan said.
A GoFundMe page organised on behalf of Welsh’s family described her as a beloved daughter, sister, friend, and teammate who was eagerly anticipating her senior year. The campaign highlighted her ability to bring joy to those around her with her humour, support, and sweet nature.
In Welsh’s memory, the university’s flag will be flown at half-mast on Tuesday, according to Chancellor King. The university has made counselling services available to students, faculty, and staff, and additional support and flexibility will be provided to those in need.
What Other Media Are Saying
- ABC7 Chicago reports on the tragic murder of University of Wisconsin-Whitewater gymnast Kara Welsh, 21, who was shot in her apartment, with a remembrance ceremony planned.(read more)
- CNN reports the fatal shooting of Kara Welsh, a University of Wisconsin-Whitewater gymnast, with a man arrested in connection.(read more)
- Fox59 reports that University of Wisconsin-Whitewater gymnast Kara Welsh, 21, was shot and killed at an off-campus apartment, and a 23-year-old male has been arrested and charged.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Who was Kara Welsh?
Kara Welsh was a University of Wisconsin-Whitewater gymnast and a senior majoring in business management.
What happened to Kara Welsh?
Kara Welsh was fatally shot in an off-campus apartment, days before the start of the fall semester.
Who has been arrested in connection with Kara Welsh’s death?
A 23-year-old man known to Welsh was arrested and is being held at Walworth County Jail.
What did the UW-Whitewater Chancellor say about Kara Welsh’s death?
Chancellor Corey King described the news as heartbreaking and called on the community to support one another.
What support is the university providing after Kara Welsh’s death?
The university is offering counseling services and extra support and flexibility to students who need it.
