JANESVILLE, WI — Tragedy Unfolds at Aspen Square Apartments: Three Dead, One Critically Injured in Apparent Domestic Shooting
A deep sense of sorrow and shock has gripped the community of Janesville after a devastating shooting Tuesday morning at the Aspen Square Apartments on North Pontiac Drive left three adults dead and a fourth critically injured. Among the deceased is Julia Katherine, who has been identified as one of the victims by local authorities.
The Janesville Police Department reported that officers were dispatched at approximately 11:05 a.m. following a call regarding a “family problem.” Moments later, a 911 call confirmed that shots had been fired at the residence.
When police arrived on the scene, they discovered four adult victims with gunshot wounds inside an apartment unit. Three individuals were pronounced dead at the scene, and one surviving victim was transported by Janesville Fire Paramedics to Mercy Hospital in critical condition with life-threatening injuries.
Victim Identified: Julia Katherine
Authorities have formally identified Julia Katherine as one of the three deceased individuals. Friends and family members describe Julia as a compassionate, generous, and hardworking woman who deeply cared about those close to her. Her loss has sent waves of grief across both her personal circles and the broader Janesville community.
“Julia had such a kind soul,” said one neighbor. “She was always the first one to offer help, whether you needed a ride or just someone to talk to. It’s unbelievable that she’s gone.”
The names of the other two victims, as well as the surviving individual, have not yet been publicly released as police continue to notify next of kin.
A Family Tragedy
While full details have not yet been released, police have indicated that the shooting appears to stem from a domestic-related conflict. Investigators are working to establish the sequence of events that led to the tragedy and to determine whether the shooter is among the deceased or if charges will be filed.
During a press conference held Tuesday afternoon, Janesville Police Chief David Moore emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the community, assuring residents that the incident appears to be isolated and contained within the apartment unit involved.
“This is a tragic event, but we want the public to know that there is no credible threat to the community at large,” Moore said. “We are conducting a thorough investigation to understand what happened and why.”
Community in Mourning
The Aspen Square Apartments and the surrounding neighborhood have been left stunned. Residents who heard the gunshots described the moment as surreal, with many initially unsure of what was happening.
“I heard popping sounds, like firecrackers,” one resident told local media. “Then I saw the police swarming the building and realized something terrible had happened.”
The apartment complex, located in the 2600 block of North Pontiac Drive, was quickly secured by police, and investigators remained on scene for several hours collecting evidence, speaking with witnesses, and piecing together what unfolded inside the unit.
Grief counselors and crisis response teams have been made available for neighbors and relatives of the victims as the emotional toll of the tragedy sets in.
Investigation Ongoing
The Janesville Police Department, with support from forensic investigators and the Rock County Medical Examiner’s Office, is continuing to investigate the incident. Autopsies will be conducted to determine exact causes of death, and further information is expected in the coming days.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether any weapons were recovered at the scene, and no arrests have been announced as of Wednesday morning.
Police are urging anyone with information about the events leading up to the shooting to come forward. Anonymous tips can be provided by calling the Janesville Area Crime Stoppers at (608) 756-3636.
Final Thoughts
The deaths of Julia Katherine and two others, coupled with the critical injury of a fourth victim, mark one of the most significant and heartbreaking acts of domestic violence in recent Janesville history. As friends and family begin to mourn, the community is left grappling with unanswered questions and the profound pain of senseless loss.
A vigil is being planned by local community members to honor the lives lost and to support the survivor. Details will be shared once arrangements are finalized.
May Julia and the other victims rest in peace, and may the community find strength and healing during this unimaginably difficult time. 🕯️
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
