Family of Wisconsin gymnast Kara Welsh breaks silence over gun death

The family of a murdered University of Wisconsin gymnast has broken their silence about her killing.

Kara Welsh's relatives paid tribute to the “sweet” 21-year-old and praised her “unique ability to bring joy to everyone whose path she crosses.”

Welsh, of Plainfield, Illinois, was found dead of multiple gunshot wounds shortly before midnight on August 30.

“We’re all still trying to understand this,” said Welsh’s cousin Shane Welsh.

“We are all feeling so many emotions, whether it's family, friends, classmates or coaches. This has affected us all so much.”

Police have arrested and charged a 23-year-old man in connection with her murder, but have not yet released his name publicly.

It is unclear why they remain so silent.

They claim she knew her killer, but have not yet revealed his identity or described the nature of their relationship.

In a GoFundMe campaign, Welsh's family described the star athlete as “always bringing a smile to people's faces with her sense of humor, unwavering support and kind personality.”

She was a successful athlete for her college, winning a national title on vault in 2023.

Welsh's varsity team coach said in a statement, “Welsh is a phenom on vault, holding four of the eight highest scores by a Warhawk gymnast on that apparatus in program history.”

“In addition to her high-caliber gymnastics performance, Welsh was a dedicated and supportive teammate. Her great personality and passion for motivating those around her helped her teammates succeed.”

Welsh was a star athlete in her college and won a national title on vault in her junior year. She also competed as a floor specialist (pictured)

Her former club Aspire Gymnastics described her as an “integral” part of the club.

“She has been a constant in a sport marked by ups and downs,” the gym said in a statement.

“She was full of life and personality. Kara had an unparalleled way of communicating through facial expressions.”

Welsh studied business and economics, said university chancellor Corey King.

“We know the news of Kara’s death is heartbreaking for our close-knit university community.

“It is a time when we are all called upon to support one another, process the incident and mourn.”

Welsh's former teammate Sierra Brooks said: “I just can't understand how someone could do something like that to such a wonderful person.”

Her former teammate Sierra Brooks said she couldn't imagine how anyone could do such a thing, let alone such a wonderful person.

She was described as a beloved sister, daughter, teammate and friend who brought joy to all whose paths crossed

“No pictures or videos can truly convey how much of a joy it was to be around you. A person who is always friendly, helpful and always makes you smile. What more could you ask for?”

“Thank you for all the years we spent together, Kara. I wish there were many more.”

A police statement said the shooting occurred after an “altercation” between the two.

The investigation is ongoing and the police are urging the public to pass on any relevant information.