Star college gymnast, 21, fatally shot in off-campus home – boyfriend, 23, arrested
A talented 21-year-old college gymnast was tragically killed, and her boyfriend has been taken into custody in connection with the shooting.
The community is mourning the tragic loss of Kara Welsh, a talented 21-year-old gymnast, whose life was cut short in a shocking incident. Kara, a senior at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater (UWW), was found shot to death in her off-campus apartment on August 30, 2024.
Authorities confirmed that a 23-year-old male, known to Kara, was involved in an altercation with her before the shooting. The police are still investigating, but friends and loved ones are left devastated by the sudden and senseless loss.
Kara Welsh was not just a student; she was a national champion gymnast who won an individual title on the vault in 2023. Friends and teammates describe her as a vibrant and kind-hearted person who always brought joy to those around her. Her best friend, Sierra Brooks, shared her grief on social media, saying, “Wish I could just see you one more time. Wish I could laugh with you just one more time. Wish I could hug you one more time..”
Kara had a strong presence in the gymnastics community. Aspire Gymnastics Academy, where she trained, posted a heartfelt tribute, sharing how Kara’s bright personality and love for the sport made her a standout athlete and friend. “Kara had a way of communicating through facial expressions that was second to none. Aspire lost a piece of its heart today,” they wrote.
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Friends of Kara and the suspect, identified as Chad Richards, expressed deep regret, wondering if things could have been different. One friend, Brayten Wilkerson, said, “Sometimes I beat myself up, if I was able to see them that day maybe…just one more joke one more memory we could make…could change….”
Authorities have not yet officially charged Richards, but the Whitewater Police Department has confirmed that charges of first-degree intentional homicide and other serious offenses are being sent to the District Attorney’s office.
This tragedy has left Kara’s family, friends, and the university community in deep mourning. Chancellor Corey King of UWW called her “a standout member of the Warhawk gymnastics team” and said her loss is felt deeply across the campus.
As we remember Kara for her incredible spirit and the joy she brought to everyone she met, let us also reflect on the senseless violence that took her life. We encourage you to share your thoughts and memories of Kara in the comments below. Let’s come together to support her loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.
What do you think of this tragic story? Please share your thoughts and condolences, and let’s send our collective support to Kara’s family and friends.
