First-year Loyola student identified as victim in fatal shooting at Loyola Beach; hunt for masked gunman continues
Loyola University Mourns the Loss of First-Year Student Sheridan Gorman
Loyola University is grieving the loss of 18-year-old Sheridan Gorman, a first-year student at the school who was tragically murdered on the pier at Loyola Beach. Hailing from Yorktown Heights, New York, Gorman was with friends when a masked man approached the group and fatally shot her in the head. She was pronounced dead at the scene, leaving the community in shock and sorrow.
Mark C. Reed, Loyola’s President, expressed his condolences in a heartfelt social media post, stating, “This is a tragic loss, and our hearts go out to Sheridan’s family, loved ones, and all who knew her.” The university is providing counseling support for those affected by this devastating event and will hold a prayer vigil on Thursday evening to honor Gorman’s memory.
According to initial reports, the masked gunman emerged from behind the light beacon at the end of the pier, fired a single shot, and then fled down the beach around 1:11 a.m. Thursday. The motive behind the senseless act remains unclear as investigators work to piece together the events leading up to the tragedy.
Just over a year ago, Gorman joyfully announced her acceptance to Loyola on the Loyola Chicago 2030 Instagram page, expressing her excitement to pursue a business degree at the university. Describing herself as a lover of travel, music, cooking, and meeting new people, Gorman’s vibrant spirit and zest for life shone through in her posts.
In a heartfelt statement posted by Reed on Loyola’s Facebook page, he shared, “It is with profound sadness that I write to share that one of our students, Sheridan Gorman, was killed earlier today in an incident north of the Lake Shore Campus. This is a tragic loss, and our hearts go out to Sheridan’s family, loved ones, and all who knew her.”
As the community grapples with this devastating loss, counseling and support services are being made available to students and staff. A vigil at Madonna della Strada Chapel has been scheduled for 7:00 p.m. to provide a space for reflection, prayer, and solidarity during this difficult time.
Campus Safety is working closely with the Chicago Police Department to investigate the circumstances surrounding Gorman’s death, reassuring the campus community that there is no ongoing threat. Students are urged to come forward with any information that may assist in the investigation, emphasizing the importance of cooperation and vigilance in ensuring justice for Gorman.
Sheridan Gorman’s untimely passing has left a void in the hearts of those who knew her, prompting an outpouring of support and love from the Loyola community. As we come together to mourn her loss and celebrate her life, may we find solace in each other’s company and honor her memory with kindness, compassion, and unity.
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