A college gymnast was shot dead in an off-campus apartment.
Police arrested a 23-year-old man and charged him with first-degree intentional homicide for the incident, which took place near the University of Wisconsin Whitewater Friday night.
Kara Welsh, the 21-year-old victim, was found dead with multiple gunshot wounds just before midnight in her unit near campus.
Police say she knew the man accused of her murder, but the exact 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 at her college, winning a national vault title her freshman year. She also competed as a floor specialist (pictured)
Welsh was a star athlete at her university, winning a national vault title her freshman year.
A GoFundMe fundraiser has been launched for Welsh’s grieving family, describing Welsh as a “lovely” girl whose life was “brutally 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 met, always putting a smile on people’s faces with her sense of humor, unwavering support and sweet disposition.
“Kara was thrilled to be in her final year as a gymnast at UW-Whitewater, which was abruptly cut short on August 30 by a heartless act of violence.
“We are absolutely heartbroken for our beloved Welsh family as they go through this incredibly difficult time.
A GoFundMe fundraiser has been launched for Welsh’s grieving family, describing Welsh as a “sweet” girl whose life was “abruptly cut short…by a heartless act of violence.”
Police say she knew the man accused of her murder, but the exact nature of their relationship remains unclear
“They will surely have a lot to endure in the near future and we would like to help ease the financial burden during this time of grieving, planning and travel that will surely be necessary.”
Welsh’s former teammate Sierra Brooks said she “can’t even fathom how anyone could do this, let alone to someone so beautiful.”
“No photo or video can truly express how happy I was to be by your side. A person who is always kind and encouraging, while always making you smile. What more could you ask for?”
“Thank you for all the years we spent together, Kara. I wish there were many more.”
Welsh was a star athlete at her college, winning a national vault title her freshman year.
The investigation is ongoing and police are urging the community to come forward with any relevant information.
Police said in a statement: “Through the investigation, it was determined that prior to the shooting, an altercation had occurred between the two males.”
The investigation is ongoing and police are urging the community to come forward with any relevant information.
Welsh is majoring in business and economics, said university Chancellor Corey King.
“We know the news of Kara’s death is heartbreaking for our close-knit university community.
“This is a time when we are all called to support each other, to reflect and to grieve.”
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