Tragic Death of Loyola University Student Linked to Venezuelan National

A 25-year-old man from Venezuela has been arrested for the shooting death of 18-year-old Sheridan Gorman, a student at Loyola University Chicago. The incident occurred while Gorman was with friends at Tobey Prinz Beach, where she was shot in the head by a masked assailant. Tragically, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Gorman’s family shared with local media that she and her friends were at the beach to witness the Northern Lights. They firmly stated that her actions were not reckless, emphasizing that it seemed to be a random act of violence.

“Sheridan was our daughter, our sister, and the heart of our family. She was full of energy, kindness, and love that she gave freely to those around her,” her family expressed.

Medina’s arrest took place on a Friday night, and he was set to appear in court shortly thereafter. However, a delay occurred because he was hospitalized with tuberculosis. Currently, a specific motive for the shooting hasn’t been established.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is pursuing detention against Medina. Notably, they pointed out that he had been released twice in 2023 under the current administration’s policies, including an incident related to shoplifting in Chicago.

“Sheridan Gorman was failed by open border policies and sanctuary politicians who released this illegal alien twice before committing this heinous murder,” said DHS Acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Biss.

She urged local leaders to ensure that individuals like Medina are not released back into communities after serving time.

In the wake of these events, Gorman’s family described their loss as a “violent and preventable act.” They expressed disappointment over the policies that allowed Medina’s release, stressing the need for accountability in the system.

“This cannot be just another incident that fades from the public eye. Sheridan’s life mattered. What happened to her mattered, and we will make sure she is not forgotten,” they declared.

Gorman, originally from Yorktown, New York, was described as a dedicated business major and an active participant in a Christian campus organization. The shooting occurred in the early hours of the morning at the beach, as a masked figure ambushed her group from behind. She suffered a critical head injury and was pronounced dead immediately. Fortunately, none of her friends sustained serious injuries.

In memory of Gorman, a memorial and scholarship fund has been established in her hometown.