Loyola University Student Killed in Chicago Shooting

18-year-old Sheridan Gorman shot while walking with friends near campus

Mar. 20, 2026 at 6:00pm

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An 18-year-old Loyola University student was shot and killed while walking with friends near the school's Lake Shore campus in Chicago. The group was approached by an unknown male who opened fire, fatally striking Sheridan Gorman in the head. No one else was injured in the incident, which occurred around 1:30 a.m. on Thursday.

Why it matters

This tragic incident has shaken the Loyola University community and raised concerns about safety in the area surrounding the campus. The death of a beloved student has prompted the university to offer counseling services and work closely with law enforcement as they investigate the shooting.

The details

According to police, the group of friends was walking near Tobey Prinz Beach Park, less than a mile from Loyola's Lake Shore campus, when an unknown male approached them and opened fire. Sheridan Gorman was shot in the head and died at the scene, while no one else was injured.

  • The incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 20, 2026.

The players

Sheridan Gorman

An 18-year-old student at Loyola University in Chicago who was fatally shot while walking with friends near campus.

Mark Reed

The president of Loyola University, who expressed condolences and said the university is offering counseling services and working with law enforcement.

Ron Hattar

The superintendent of Yorktown Central School District in New York, where Sheridan Gorman was a beloved student before attending Loyola University.

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What they’re saying

“This is a tragic loss, and our hearts go out to Sheridan's family, loved ones, and all who knew her.”

— Mark Reed, President, Loyola University

“We are so deeply shattered by this tragic and senseless loss. Sheridan was loved by all who knew her, and her impact on students and staff alike was profound. She was a shining light for so many people.”

— Ron Hattar, Superintendent, Yorktown Central School District

What’s next

Loyola University and local law enforcement are continuing to investigate the shooting and work to determine the identity and motive of the unknown male suspect.

The takeaway

This tragic incident has left the Loyola University community in mourning and raised concerns about safety in the area surrounding the campus. The university's response, including offering counseling services and working closely with law enforcement, highlights the importance of supporting students and the community in the aftermath of such a senseless act of violence.