Chicago Police Arrest Suspect in Student's Killing

Tipoff from apartment building engineer led to arrest of Venezuelan national Jose Medina

Mar. 24, 2026 at 6:45pm

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Chicago police have arrested 25-year-old Venezuelan national Jose Medina in connection with the killing of 18-year-old college student Sheridan Gorman near Loyola University's campus. Medina was identified through security camera footage showing him leaving the shooting scene and a distinct limp that was recognized by a building engineer, who then alerted the authorities.

Why it matters

This case highlights the role of community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement in solving violent crimes, as well as ongoing debates around immigration policies and their potential impact on public safety.

The details

According to an arrest report, security camera footage showed Medina, who had entered the country illegally in 2023, leaving the shooting scene in dark clothing and a mask, walking with a "distinct limp and slow gait." Minutes later, a camera in his apartment building lobby captured him holding a mask in his hand. A building engineer who recognized Medina's gait alerted the police, leading to his arrest at his Rogers Park apartment, where a .40-caliber handgun was allegedly found.

  • Medina entered the country illegally in 2023.
  • In May 2023, Medina was apprehended and released by Border Patrol.
  • In June 2023, Medina was arrested for shoplifting in Chicago and released again.
  • An arrest warrant was filed after Medina stopped appearing in court on the shoplifting charge.
  • Medina was arrested on Friday in connection with Gorman's killing.

The players

Jose Medina

A 25-year-old Venezuelan national who entered the country illegally in 2023 and has a history of arrests and legal issues.

Sheridan Gorman

An 18-year-old college student who was killed near Loyola University's campus.

Department of Homeland Security

Claimed that Gorman was "failed by open border policies and sanctuary politicians."

JB Pritzker

The office of the Illinois governor accused the Trump administration of "politicizing heinous tragedies."

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.