Loyola University Student Killed in Chicago Shooting

Sheridan Gorman, 18, was walking with friends near campus when an unknown male opened fire.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 1:21pm

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An 18-year-old Loyola University Chicago student was shot and killed while walking with friends near the school's Lake Shore campus in Chicago. The victim, identified as Sheridan Gorman, was with a group of friends near Tobey Prinz Beach Park around 1:30 a.m. Thursday when an unknown male approached them, showed a gun, and opened fire. Gorman was shot in the head and died at the scene, while no one else was injured.

Why it matters

This tragic incident has shaken the Loyola University community and raised concerns about safety in the area. Gorman's family is demanding answers and justice, while the university is offering counseling services and working with law enforcement on the investigation.

The details

According to police, the group of friends was walking near the beach park, less than a mile from the Loyola campus, when the unknown male approached them and opened fire. Gorman was shot in the head and died at the scene, while the other friends were unharmed.

  • The incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 21, 2026.

The players

Sheridan Gorman

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

Loyola University Chicago

The university where Sheridan Gorman was a student.

Yorktown Central School District

The school district in Westchester County, New York, where Sheridan Gorman was a beloved student before attending Loyola University.

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What they’re saying

“Sheridan was the light of our lives. She made people feel seen, safe, and loved simply by being who she was. She lived her faith with kindness, compassion, and joy, and she loved her family and friends deeply.”

— Sheridan Gorman's Family

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

— Mark Reed, Loyola University President

“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, Yorktown Central School District Superintendent

What’s next

The Chicago Police Department is investigating the shooting and working to identify the unknown male suspect. Loyola University is offering counseling services to students and staff affected by the tragedy.

The takeaway

This heartbreaking incident has left the Loyola University community and Sheridan Gorman's loved ones devastated. It highlights the urgent need for improved safety measures and gun violence prevention efforts, especially in areas near college campuses, to protect students and ensure they can feel secure in their communities.