Hundreds pack NYC suburb to remember Loyola University student Sheridan Gorman
The town of Yorktown Heights, NY, came together to honor the memory of Sheridan Gorman, the 18-year-old Loyola University freshman who tragically lost her life in Chicago. Hundreds of mourners gathered at Jack DeVito Memorial Field to pay their respects to the beloved student-athlete known for her faith, joy, and positivity.
Sheridan’s father, Thomas, expressed the deep loss felt by the family and the community, describing Sheridan as their collective joy. The crowd, dressed in the town’s green and white colors, came together to show their support and love for the Gorman family during this difficult time.
Sheridan was remembered as a confident young woman, a devout Christian, and a standout high school athlete who brought light and encouragement to all those around her. Her mother, Jessica, spoke about Sheridan’s ability to believe in others and the positive impact she had on everyone she met.
The tragic incident that took Sheridan’s life occurred on a Chicago pier where she and her friends were hoping to see the northern lights. A masked gunman emerged and fired a single shot, fatally striking Sheridan as she tried to flee. The alleged shooter, Jose Medina-Medina, a Venezuelan national with a prior criminal record, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder.
Sheridan’s older sister, Maddie, shared her struggle to come to terms with the loss of her sibling and the realization that they would no longer share important milestones together. She described Sheridan as someone who made everyone feel included and valued, leaving a lasting impact on those around her.
The community also gathered for a private funeral service at the First Presbyterian Church of Yorktown to say their final goodbyes to Sheridan. Mourners expressed their shock and disbelief at the senseless tragedy and emphasized the need for justice to be served for Sheridan and her family.
As one mourner aptly put it, Sheridan was always smiling and radiated positivity, leaving a lasting impression on everyone she met. The hope for justice and closure for the grieving family and community remains strong as they come together to honor Sheridan’s memory and legacy of love and light.
