Sheridan Gorman, an 18-year-old freshman at Loyola University in Chicago, was tragically shot and killed early Thursday morning as she walked with friends near Tobey Prinz Beach, located along Lake Michigan.
Details of the Incident
According to WLS, Gorman was with friends near the pier just after 2 a.m. when a masked man approached the group on foot. The man took out a gun and opened fire, striking Gorman in the head.
She was pronounced dead at the scene. Police have indicated that Gorman was not the intended target but have not clarified if someone else in the group was.
“This is a tragic loss, and our hearts go out to Sheridan’s family, loved ones, and all who knew her,” Loyola University said in a statement.
“We are in close contact with law enforcement as they investigate and work to understand the full circumstances of this tragedy. Based on the information available to us now, there is no ongoing threat to our campus community.”
Family’s Statement
Gorman’s family, who live in Yorktown, New York, issued a heartfelt statement to WMAQ.
“Our beloved daughter, Sheridan, was taken from us this morning in Chicago. There is no way to soften this—this was murder,” the family said. “Sheridan was the light of our lives.
She made people feel seen, safe, and loved simply by being who she was. She lived her faith with kindness, compassion, and joy, and she loved her family and friends deeply.”
The family also expressed their gratitude for the support they’ve received from the communities connected to them but requested privacy as they process their grief.
Police Investigation
Police have confirmed that the group did not know the gunman, and the motive behind the shooting remains unclear. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident.
