Investigation launched after fatal shooting of University of Washington, Whitewater student off campus

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater community is mourning the loss of Kara Welsh, a 21-year-old Plainfield student who was killed in an off-campus shooting on Friday.

Chancellor Corey King announced the news in a message to students, faculty and staff, expressing deep sadness at the loss of Welsh.

Welsh, who studied management, was also an athlete on the Warhawk gymnastics team. In 2023, she won an individual national title on vault.

Whitewater police said a 23-year-old man has been charged with first-degree premeditated murder, endangering safety by use of a dangerous weapon and disorderly conduct while armed.

Counseling services from the University Health and Counseling Services are available to students, while faculty and staff are encouraged to contact Acentra, the employee assistance program.

The UW-Whitewater Police Department is working with the City of Whitewater Police Department in the ongoing investigation of the incident. King assured the university community that the administration is actively involved in the response to this tragedy.

Memorial details will be announced as soon as they are available. The UW-Whitewater flag will be flown at half-staff on Tuesday in honor of Kara.