Tragedy in Janesville: Julia Katherine Among Three Killed in Aspen Square Apartment Shooting — Community Reeling After Deadly Tuesday Morning Attack

Janesville, WI – June 17, 2025 — A deep sense of grief has gripped the city of Janesville following a devastating triple homicide at the Aspen Square Apartments on North Pontiac Drive. The violent incident, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday morning, claimed the lives of three adults, including Julia Katherine, and left a fourth victim in critical condition.

Authorities responded to multiple 911 calls around 7:45 a.m. reporting gunshots and cries for help coming from one of the apartment units. When officers from the Janesville Police Department arrived, they found a gruesome scene: three victims deceased inside the residence and one person clinging to life with severe gunshot wounds.

Victim Identified: Remembering Julia Katherine

One of the victims has been publicly identified as Julia Katherine, a resident of Janesville known to many as a kind-hearted and thoughtful member of the community. Friends and neighbors have described her as deeply empathetic, intellectually curious, and someone who always extended a helping hand.

“Julia had a way of making everyone feel seen,” said her friend Erica Mendez, who tearfully spoke outside the apartment complex Tuesday evening. “She was full of life, full of promise. This doesn’t feel real.”

Julia was in her early 30s and had been living at the complex for over a year. She was reportedly studying online while working part-time at a local nonprofit.

The identities of the two other deceased victims have not yet been released as authorities continue to notify next of kin. The condition and identity of the surviving victim remain undisclosed, though police confirmed the person was transported to an area hospital in critical condition.

Scene of the Crime: What We Know

Janesville Police Chief David Moore addressed the public Tuesday afternoon, stating that the shooting appeared to be isolated and that all individuals involved were acquainted with one another.

“This was not a random act of violence,” Moore said. “We believe this was a targeted incident, possibly related to a domestic conflict or dispute between known parties.”

A firearm was recovered at the scene, but no arrests have been made as of Wednesday morning. Detectives are working in collaboration with the Wisconsin Department of Justice’s Division of Criminal Investigation, reviewing witness statements, forensic evidence, and any available security footage.

Authorities have urged residents who may have seen or heard anything unusual between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. Tuesday in the area of North Pontiac Drive to come forward.

Tips can be provided anonymously by calling Janesville Police at (608) 755-3100.

A Community in Mourning

As word of the tragedy spread, members of the Aspen Square community gathered near the building, laying flowers, lighting candles, and comforting one another. Shock and sorrow were evident among residents, many of whom had interacted with the victims in daily life.

“This is usually a quiet area,” said neighbor Donnie Clark, who has lived in the complex for five years. “We’ve never seen anything like this. We’re scared, heartbroken, and angry all at once.”

Local leaders have called for calm, urging residents to support one another and allow law enforcement to carry out a full investigation. Mayor Paul Benson released a public statement Tuesday evening, offering condolences to the families affected and vowing to support them during this time of crisis.

“The city of Janesville stands united in grief,” Mayor Benson said. “We are devastated by this loss and committed to ensuring justice is served.”

Mental Health and Support Services Available

In response to the shooting, the Rock County Crisis Response Team has deployed counselors and grief specialists to the area to assist residents and witnesses dealing with trauma. Community organizations are also coordinating efforts to provide support to the victims’ families and those close to them.

Residents in need of assistance can contact the Rock County Crisis Line at (608) 757-5025.

What’s Next

As investigators continue to piece together the events that led to this tragedy, the focus remains on uncovering the truth while offering support to the loved ones left behind.

For the family of Julia Katherine, this is not just a headline—it is an irreplaceable loss.

“She was smart, creative, and kind,” said Mendez. “She deserved to grow old, to live fully. This world is lesser without her.”

More details will be released as they become available. Anyone with information is urged to contact Janesville Police directly.