PLATTEVILLE, Wis. — A profound sense of grief hangs over the University of Wisconsin–Platteville as students, faculty, and staff mourn the loss of one of their own: Kelsie Martin, a beloved student leader, mentor, and friend. Kelsie, 22, of Beloit, Wisconsin, was tragically killed in a targeted incident that also took the life of fellow student Hallie Helms, 22, of Baraboo. The incident, which occurred on May 19, 2025, in Wilgus Hall, has been described by authorities as an isolated murder-suicide, shocking the tight-knit campus community and beyond.
Kelsie was more than a student—she was a force of compassion, positivity, and resilience on campus. As an Assistant Resident Director (ARD), she played a vital role in shaping the UW-Platteville residence life experience. At the beginning of the academic year, she shared her heartfelt motivation for stepping into the leadership position: *