New York Lawmaker Criticizes Immigration System After Teen’s Fatal Shooting

A New York state representative has expressed strong criticism regarding the United States’ immigration system, labeling it “clearly broken.” This remark came after a Venezuelan immigrant was taken into custody for allegedly shooting and killing an 18-year-old in his district.

Sheridan Gorman, from Yorktown Heights, lost her life when she was shot in the head early Thursday morning while strolling along a lakefront in Chicago with friends.

The suspect, a 25-year-old Venezuelan who entered the U.S. three years ago, was arrested in connection with the murder of a Loyola University freshman.

State Rep. Matt Slater (R-Yorktown) expressed gratitude to law enforcement for their swift action in capturing the suspect, but he firmly blamed the immigration framework for allowing what he views as a dangerous individual entry into the country.

“We must not overlook that this is the second incident where someone from our community has fallen victim to such violence,” Slater stated.

“Our immigration system is clearly broken and is putting innocent Americans at risk. No one should suffer due to a system that has multiple flaws,” he added.

Slater referenced a previous case, where 15-year-old Michael Raimondi was murdered in October 2024 by 40-year-old illegal immigrant Fernando Jiminez.

Michael’s mother and his brother were also victims of gun violence at their home in Somers, Westchester County.

Gorman’s family acknowledged their awareness of the Venezuelan background of their daughter’s alleged killer.

“This was inevitable. This was a choice. And our daughter paid the price,” they remarked in a statement released on Sunday.

“My daughter’s life was not disposable. She should still be here,” they concluded, stressing the tragedy of the situation.