Kara Welsh, a University of Wisconsin-Whitewater student and champion gymnast was found in a horrifying scene after being shot eight times in her boyfriend’s apartment on August 30. According to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Welsh, 21, was discovered in a pool of blood, lying in the fetal position when authorities arrived just before midnight.
The medical examiner reported that Welsh suffered gunshot wounds to her neck, torso, and other areas. Her boyfriend, 23-year-old Chad Richards, a former UW-Whitewater wrestler, has been charged with first-degree intentional homicide in connection with her death.
Richards claimed he acted in self-defense following an argument with Welsh, saying they struggled over his gun, which she allegedly grabbed from a nightstand. He told investigators he wrestled the weapon from her and fired because he “feared for his life.” Richards made the 911 call after the shooting, but his account is under heavy scrutiny.
Welsh, who was majoring in management at the university’s College of Business and Economics, was a talented athlete. In 2023, she earned national recognition by winning an individual vault title at the NCAA Division III championships. She was preparing to start her senior year.
“Kara was a daughter, sister, dear friend, and teammate,” her grieving family wrote on a fundraising page. “She had an incredible ability to bring joy to everyone she met, always putting smiles on people’s faces with her humor, support, and sweet nature.”
Richards, who wrestled for UW-Whitewater during his freshman and sophomore years, is also facing additional charges of endangering safety by use of a dangerous weapon and disorderly conduct. He is being held at Walworth County Jail on a $1 million bond as the investigation continues into the tragic death of the beloved student and athlete.