Chad Richards, 23, a former wrestler from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, is charged with first-degree murder after the shooting of his girlfriend, 21-year-old Kara Welsh. The incident happened on Aug 30, 2024, at Richards’ off-campus apartment, just days before Welsh was set to start her senior year.
Richards called 911 just before midnight, saying a woman was dying. When police arrived, they found Welsh lying on the floor with several gunshot wounds. Officers found 11 used shell casings at the scene.
According to WMTV forensic report showed that Welsh had been shot eight times, including in her neck, torso, and legs.
Richards told police that Welsh grabbed a handgun during an argument.
He claimed he wrestled the gun from her and shot her because he was scared for his life. However, investigators believe some shots were fired while Welsh was already on the ground.
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Richards is being held on a $1 million bond, which the judge kept in place due to the serious nature of the case and the risk of him fleeing.
He’s also banned from returning to the university if released. His next court date is set for Oct 26, 2024.
Jen Regan, the UW-Whitewater gymnastics coach, said Welsh had a huge impact on the team, calling her a “dedicated teammate” and “the light in everyone’s dark days.” Welsh, a two-time All-American gymnast, was honored with flags at half-staff on campus. A GoFundMe has been set up to help her family with funeral costs.
The investigation is still ongoing, and police are asking anyone with more information to come forward