Jose Medina Charged in Fatal Shooting of Loyola Student Sheridan Gorman

Chicago police have charged a 25-year-old man in connection with the fatal shooting of a Loyola University freshman at a beach in Rogers Park.

Sheridan Gorman, 18, was killed early Thursday morning while walking with friends at Tobey Prinz Beach near Lake Michigan.

Authorities identified the suspect as Jose Medina, who faces charges of first-degree murder, attempted murder, and aggravated battery with a firearm.

The incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. on March 19, 2026, as Gorman and her companions were reportedly attempting to view the northern lights.

According to investigators, a masked individual approached the group and opened fire without provocation.

Gorman sustained a fatal gunshot wound to the head and was pronounced dead at the scene by responding emergency personnel.

Police described the shooting as a random act of violence, noting that there appeared to be no prior connection between the victim and the assailant.

Medina, a Venezuelan national, was arrested shortly after the shooting occurred.

Records indicate Medina entered the United States without legal authorization in May 2023 and was subsequently released by U.S. Border Patrol.

In June 2023, he was arrested for retail theft in Chicago and released pending further court appearances.

At the time of the shooting, Medina was residing in a migrant shelter located in the vicinity of the Rogers Park beach.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has since placed a detainer on Medina, requesting that he be transferred to federal custody following the resolution of his criminal case.

The shooting has prompted discussions regarding campus safety and the management of temporary housing facilities in residential neighborhoods.

Loyola University Chicago issued a statement expressing condolences to the Gorman family and offering counseling services to students affected by the tragedy.

Local residents have raised concerns about security measures at public parks during late-night hours.

Medina is scheduled to appear for a bond hearing as the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office moves forward with the prosecution.

The investigation remains active as detectives work to recover the weapon used in the attack and review surveillance footage from the area.