University of Wisconsin-Whitewater wrestler has been tied to the murder of gymnast Kara Welsh, who reportedly died from multiple gunshots on August 30 in her off-campus apartment.
The suspect has been identified as 23-year-old Chad Richards, who was actually still in the apartment when police arrived following the fatal shooting.
JUST IN: 23-year-old Chad T. Richard is accused of m*rdering award-winning gymnast Kara Welsh just a block away from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater.
The Whitewater Police Department says Richard shot Welsh multiple times at an apartment.
"Through investigation, it was… pic.twitter.com/1ry6f9o9rA
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) September 3, 2024
Then after a conducted investigation, the Whitewater Police Department has came to the conclusion that the shooting stemmed from an altercation between Richards and Welsh, whose relationship isn't exactly known as this time, but according to police they did know each other and are both from Illinois.
The people around Chad knew he was dangerous, that he would act sooner or later, and they didn't warn the authorities. Poor Kara Welsh, I hope Chad goes to prison for life. pic.twitter.com/t6yOyAPJQM
— just sam (@HOUSEDISAM) September 4, 2024
The former wrestler has been placed under arrest with charges of first-degree intentional homicide, endangering safety by the use of dangerous weapons, and disorderly conduct while armed, according to the WPD. That is to say, he was present at Walworth County Courthouse on Tuesday, as the judge set bail at $1 million, his next hearing is Friday, September 6.
More details on Kara Welsh boyfriend/suspect pic.twitter.com/r7Bz8mW5FS
— Buddy (@scdlcaramia) September 3, 2024
The police released a statement on the matter.
"Due to the fact that this an ongoing investigation, no additional details will be provided at this time."
BREAKING: College gymnast Kara Welsh, 21, who won national title, is fatally shot near Wisconsin campus, cops say
A man has been arrested in the fatal shooting of 21-year-old University of Wisconsin-Whitewater gymnast Kara Welsh in an apartment off campus, authorities said.… pic.twitter.com/iS7ZTzJODZ
— Brett Danner 🇺🇸 (@BrettDanner1) September 2, 2024
In view of Welsh's gymnastics career, she recently won a title at nationals, participating in the vault. Not to mention, she also competed at the WIAC Championship last year, as she previously finished in second place (2022), then won third place at the NCGA Championships.
Wisconsin-Whitewater gymnastics coach Jen Regan gave a statement regarding the tragic death of Welsh.
"A powerful athlete, dedicated teammate, and the light in everyone's dark days, Kara truly lifted each and every one of us up in her time as a Warhawk gymnast."
The coach continued, "There are no words to describe the void we all feel in our hearts, but Kara's legacy will live on through Warhawk gymnastics forever."
A GoFundMe has been put up (Honoring Kara Welsh: A Fund for Her Family), and over $40,000 has been raised so far.
Related: Ex-MMA Fighter Lumumba Sayers Allegedly Committed Murder To Avenge Son's Death
