Kara Welsh Obituary, Death: Beloved College Gymnast Killed in Off-Campus Apartment Shooting
Kara Welsh, a 21-year-old college gymnast from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, was tragically shot and killed at an off-campus apartment over the weekend.
The Whitewater police have arrested a 23-year-old man in connection with her death, charging him with first-degree intentional homicide, endangering safety by using a dangerous weapon, and disorderly conduct while armed.
Kara Welsh was a beloved member of the university community, known for her talent and dedication both as a student and an athlete.
The university’s athletic director, Ryan Callahan, expressed his deep sorrow in a statement, describing Kara as a “true Warhawk” and an “amazing person, student, and athlete.”
The tragic incident occurred on Friday, August 30, when officers responded to reports of a shooting in the 100 block of West Whitewater Street.
Upon arrival, they found Kara Welsh dead from multiple gunshot wounds. Inside the apartment, they also discovered the suspect, who had reportedly been involved in an argument with Welsh before the shooting took place.
Kara Welsh hailed from Plainfield, Illinois, and was not only a standout athlete but also a dedicated student majoring in business.
She was a key member of the Warhawk gymnastics team and had recently won an individual national title on the vault in 2023, showcasing her remarkable athletic abilities.
The university community is deeply affected by Kara’s untimely death, with Chancellor Corey King acknowledging the profound impact of the tragedy and emphasizing the need for everyone to come together to support one another.
Counseling services have been made available to assist students, faculty, and staff in coping with the tragedy, and the UW-Whitewater flag will be flown at half-staff on Tuesday as a mark of respect and remembrance.
