Tragedy at UW-Platteville: Suspect Identified as Ronnie Jemmey in Targeted Campus Shooting That Claimed Lives of Two Students
PLATTEVILLE, WISCONSIN — The University of Wisconsin-Platteville community is reeling from a devastating tragedy that unfolded late Sunday night, leaving two students dead in what authorities are now calling a targeted shooting at Wilgus Hall, one of the university’s residence halls. The suspect, identified as 24-year-old Ronnie Jemmey, is currently in custody as the investigation into this shocking act of violence continues.
University officials confirmed in a somber campus-wide email early Monday morning that the victims were Kelsie Martin and Hallie Helms, both 22 years old and seniors at the university. According to the statement, the two were found fatally shot inside a dormitory room just after 11:30 p.m. Emergency responders declared them dead at the scene. The shooting has sent ripples of fear, grief, and disbelief through the tight-knit campus community of UW-Platteville.
Details Emerge: A Targeted Attack
Law enforcement officials revealed during a morning press briefing that the shooting does not appear to have been random. “We have strong evidence to suggest this was a targeted act of violence,” said Platteville Police Chief Mike Sorenson. “The suspect and the victims were known to one another, and we do not believe there is an ongoing threat to the university or the broader public.”
According to investigators, Ronnie Jemmey, who is not a student at UW-Platteville, was seen entering Wilgus Hall shortly before 11 p.m. Surveillance footage captured him being let in by a student—whose identity is currently being withheld for safety. Authorities believe Jemmey had premeditated intent to confront at least one of the victims.
Initial reports suggest that there may have been a personal connection between Jemmey and one of the victims, though police have not released details about the nature of their relationship. Unconfirmed sources have indicated a history of harassment, though investigators have cautioned against speculation until the facts are established.
Jemmey was apprehended without incident early Monday morning at a residence in nearby Dubuque, Iowa, after a coordinated effort between Platteville Police, the UW-Platteville Campus Police, and the U.S. Marshals Service. He is currently being held on two counts of first-degree intentional homicide, with extradition proceedings underway.
Remembering the Victims
Both Kelsie Martin and Hallie Helms were just weeks away from graduating. Friends and classmates describe them as vibrant, kind-hearted individuals who had bright futures ahead of them.
Kelsie Martin, a biology major from Madison, was known for her passion for environmental conservation and had recently accepted a post-graduation internship with a nonprofit in Oregon. “She had a heart for making the world a better place,” said Professor Ellen Tran, who taught Kelsie in multiple classes. “Losing her like this is beyond tragic.”
Hallie Helms, a communications major from Eau Claire, was deeply involved in campus organizations and worked as a student mentor for incoming freshmen. “She was a light to everyone who met her,” said her roommate of three years. “Her smile made even the hardest days feel easier.”
A candlelight vigil is being planned by student leaders for later this week, with counseling services extended and expanded to meet the emotional needs of the grieving student body.
Campus Response and Security Measures
UW-Platteville Chancellor Dr. Tammy Evetovich issued a heartfelt video message to the campus Monday afternoon, calling the event “an unthinkable tragedy that has shaken us to our core.” She praised first responders for their swift action and emphasized the university’s commitment to the safety of its students.
“In the coming days and weeks, we will mourn together, we will ask difficult questions together, and we will work to ensure that something like this never happens again,” Chancellor Evetovich said. “We are a community, and we will support each other in every way possible.”
In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, all classes on Monday were canceled, and students were asked to remain in their dorms overnight while police secured the scene. Additional campus police have been deployed, and university officials are reviewing security protocols at all residence halls, including guest access policies and emergency response systems.
Wider Impact
This tragedy has prompted a broader discussion across Wisconsin and beyond about campus security, gun violence, and mental health support. Lawmakers have expressed condolences and are calling for renewed attention to measures that protect students at higher education institutions.
Governor Tony Evers issued a statement Monday afternoon expressing heartbreak over the loss of life. “Kathy and I are devastated to hear of the tragedy at UW-Platteville. Our hearts are with the families of Kelsie Martin and Hallie Helms, and we stand in solidarity with the entire university community.”
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation remains active, and authorities have asked anyone with information related to the events leading up to the shooting to come forward. Officials are combing through phone records, social media activity, and witness statements to establish a clear timeline and motive.
The district attorney’s office has not yet announced when charges will be formally filed, but preliminary hearings could take place later this week. Prosecutors have indicated they will seek the maximum penalties under Wisconsin law.
A Community in Mourning
As UW-Platteville grapples with the aftermath of this senseless act, the campus has become a place of memorials and reflection. Flowers, candles, and handwritten messages line the steps of Wilgus Hall. Students, many of whom knew the victims personally, continue to gather in small groups, comforting one another through silent tears and shared memories.
It is a moment that will forever mark the history of the university. But amid the grief, there is unity. There is compassion. And there is a determination that the legacies of Kelsie Martin and Hallie Helms will live on—not only through mourning, but through action and remembrance.
Anyone in need of support is encouraged to contact UW-Platteville Counseling Services at (608) 342-1891 or visit the emergency response page on the university’s official website.