College gymnast is shot dead in off-campus attack in Wisconsin
A gymnast has been shot dead in an off-campus apartment.
Police have arrested a 23-year-old man and charged him with first-degree manslaughter in connection with the incident that occurred Friday night near the University of Wisconsin Whitewater.
Kara Welsh, the 21-year-old victim, was found dead in her unit near campus just before midnight with multiple gunshot wounds.
Police allege she knew the man accused of her murder, but the precise nature of their relationship remains unclear.
Kara Welsh, the 21-year-old victim, was found dead with multiple gunshot wounds just before midnight
Welsh was a star athlete for her college, winning a national title on the vault her junior year. She also competed as a floor specialist (pictured)
Welsh was a star athlete at university, winning a national title in the vault in her junior year.
A GoFundMe has been set up for Welsh’s grieving family. Welsh is described as a “lovely” girl whose life was “cut short… by a heartless act of violence.”
It reads: “Kara was a daughter, sister, dear friend and teammate. Kara had a unique ability to bring joy to everyone she encountered, and she always brought smiles to people’s faces with her sense of humor, unwavering support and sweet nature.
Kara was thrilled to be in her final year of gymnastics at UW-Whitewater, but her studies were cut short on August 30th by a brutal act of violence.
‘Our deepest sympathies are with our beloved Welsh family as they go through this incredibly difficult time.
A GoFundMe has been set up for Welsh’s grieving family. Welsh is described as a “sweet” girl whose life was “abruptly cut short… by a heartless act of violence”
Police claim she knew the man accused of her murder, but the exact nature of their relationship remains unclear
“They will undoubtedly face many challenges in the near future and we would like to help ease the financial burden during this time of grief, planning and undoubtedly necessary travel.”
Sierra Brooks, Welsh’s former teammate, said she “can’t understand how anyone could do this, let alone to such a beautiful person.
‘No amount of photos or videos can truly capture how wonderful it was to be with you. A person who is always kind and helpful, and always puts a smile on your face. What more could you ask for?
“Thanks for all the years together, Kara. I wish there were many more.”
Welsh was a star athlete for her university, winning a national title on the vault in her junior year
The investigation is ongoing and police are urging the community to come forward with any relevant information.
The police said in a statement: ‘Investigation has shown that an altercation took place between the two prior to the shooting.’
The investigation is ongoing and police are calling on the community to report any relevant information.
Welsh studied business and economics, said university Chancellor Corey King.
“We know the news of Kara’s death is heartbreaking for our close-knit university community.
“It is a time when we are all called upon to support, process and grieve each other.”