Sheridan Gorman, an 18-year-old freshman at Loyola University in Chicago, was fatally shot near Tobey Prinz Beach while walking with friends to view the Northern Lights, police said.
Background
Gorman and her friends were walking near the Loyola University campus when they were ambushed by a masked man dressed in black, according to Chicago Police. The group attempted to flee as the suspect approached, but the gunman opened fire.
The victim was struck in the back during the shooting, authorities said. Emergency responders pronounced Gorman dead at the scene.
The incident occurred as the group was walking to see the Northern Lights, a rare astronomical event that had drawn crowds to the lakefront area near the university campus.
The Investigation
Chicago Police identified Jose Medina, 25, as a suspect within hours of the shooting. Investigators used surveillance video from nearby businesses and residential buildings to track Medina's movements.
Officers arrested Medina at his nearby apartment, where they recovered clothing matching the description given by witnesses and a .40-caliber handgun. Shell casings found at the scene were matched to the firearm, police said.
Chicago Police detectives interviewed multiple witnesses who were with Gorman at the time of the shooting. The investigation remains ongoing, but authorities have described the attack as appearing random.
Key Takeaways
- Sheridan Gorman, 18, was a freshman at Loyola University in Chicago
- She was shot while walking with friends near Tobey Prinz Beach to see the Northern Lights
- Jose Medina, 25, is charged with first-degree murder and aggravated use of a firearm
- Police recovered a .40-caliber handgun and clothing matching the suspect's description
- The shooting appears to have been random, according to Chicago Police
What's Next
Medina is awaiting his initial court appearance. Prosecutors have not yet indicated whether they will pursue additional charges. The investigation continues as detectives review additional surveillance footage and await forensic analysis results.
The Loyola University community is mourning the loss of Gorman, who was described by classmates as a bright student with a promising future. Campus counseling services have been made available to students affected by the tragedy.