JANESVILLE, WISCONSIN — Community Grieves After Triple Homicide at Aspen Square Apartments; Julia Katherine Among Victims
JANESVILLE, WISCONSIN — Community Grieves After Triple Homicide at Aspen Square Apartments; Julia Katherine Among Victims
JANESVILLE, WISCONSIN — A deep sense of sorrow and disbelief hangs over the city of Janesville following a harrowing act of violence that unfolded early Tuesday morning, June 17, 2025, at the Aspen Square Apartments on North Pontiac Drive. The quiet of the residential complex was shattered when a devastating shooting claimed the lives of three adults and left a fourth victim critically wounded in what authorities are describing as one of the most tragic incidents in recent local memory.
Among those killed was Julia Katherine, whose identity was confirmed late Tuesday afternoon by the Janesville Police Department. Described by those who knew her as a warm, compassionate woman with a bright spirit and a giving heart, Julia’s death has sent waves of heartbreak through her family, friends, and the wider Janesville community.
According to police reports, officers responded to multiple 911 calls just before 6:30 a.m., with callers reporting gunfire and screaming coming from one of the apartment units. Upon arrival, officers discovered a grisly scene: three adults dead from gunshot wounds, and a fourth victim suffering from life-threatening injuries. That individual was immediately transported to a local hospital, where they remain in critical but stable condition.
The identities of the other two deceased victims have not yet been made public as authorities work to notify next of kin. As of Wednesday morning, investigators from the Janesville Police Department, with assistance from the Rock County Sheriff’s Office and state forensic teams, continue to process the scene and piece together the events that led to the tragedy.
While officials have not released specific details about a suspect, they did confirm that this does not appear to be a random act of violence. Investigators believe the victims and the shooter knew one another, and early evidence points to an incident of domestic violence or an interpersonal conflict that escalated into deadly force.
Police Chief David Moore addressed the media Tuesday evening, offering condolences to the victims’ families and reassuring the public that there is no immediate danger to the broader community.
“This is a tragedy that has shaken us all,” Chief Moore stated. “Three lives have been lost, a fourth hangs in the balance, and an entire community is left to grapple with the pain and confusion that follows such senseless violence. We are committed to finding answers and ensuring justice is served.”
Julia Katherine, remembered as a kind soul who worked as a caregiver for elderly clients in the area, had no known history of violence or criminal involvement. Neighbors recall seeing her often walking her small dog, chatting with residents, or helping elderly neighbors with groceries. “She was sunshine,” said one tenant, holding back tears. “You don’t expect someone like that to be taken like this.”
A candlelight vigil is being organized by local residents and friends of the victims and is scheduled to take place Friday night at a nearby park. Community leaders, clergy, and advocates against domestic and gun violence are expected to attend, offering both support and a call to action.
The tragedy has reignited discussions across Janesville about mental health resources, domestic violence intervention, and the increasing toll of gun violence across small-town America. Local officials and non-profit organizations are urging residents to take advantage of available counseling services, especially those who may have witnessed the incident or been impacted emotionally.
As the investigation moves forward, law enforcement is urging anyone with information—no matter how small—to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously through Janesville Area CrimeStoppers at (608) 758-3636 or online.
For now, Janesville mourns. Families are shattered, lives irreversibly changed, and a community once again forced to reckon with the reality that even in quiet places, tragedy can strike without warning.
Julia Katherine will be remembered not for how her life ended, but for the kindness and warmth she brought into the world. A memorial fund in her name is being set up to support her loved ones and raise awareness around domestic violence prevention. More details are expected in the coming days.
