Slain College Student's Mother Vows 'Fight for Justice' After Illegal Immigrant Charged in Chicago Killing

Sheridan Gorman, 18, was allegedly shot and killed near Loyola University Chicago by Jose Medina-Medina, an illegal immigrant from Venezuela, according to authorities.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 1:21am

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The mother of slain college student Sheridan Gorman is speaking out, vowing a "fight for justice" after the 18-year-old was allegedly murdered by an illegal immigrant earlier this month in Chicago. Jessica Gorman delivered emotional remarks at a vigil honoring her daughter, a Loyola University Chicago freshman whose life was cut short in what authorities describe as a sudden, violent attack.

Why it matters

This case has sparked outrage and renewed debate over immigration policies, with the Gorman family sharply criticizing Chicago's mayor and Illinois' governor over their daughter's death. It also highlights ongoing concerns about public safety and the impact of illegal immigration on local communities.

The details

Officials say that Jose Medina-Medina, 25, an illegal immigrant from Venezuela, allegedly fired one shot at Sheridan Gorman, killing her. Medina-Medina was previously apprehended by the U.S. Border Patrol in 2023 and released into the U.S. under the Biden administration, according to the Department of Homeland Security. He now faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, aggravated assault, and unlawful possession of a firearm.

  • Sheridan Gorman was killed around 1:06 a.m. on March 19, 2026.
  • Medina-Medina was previously apprehended by the U.S. Border Patrol on May 9, 2023.

The players

Sheridan Gorman

An 18-year-old Loyola University Chicago freshman who was allegedly murdered by an illegal immigrant near her campus.

Jessica Gorman

The mother of Sheridan Gorman, who is vowing a "fight for justice" and criticizing local officials over her daughter's death.

Jose Medina-Medina

A 25-year-old illegal immigrant from Venezuela who is accused of shooting and killing Sheridan Gorman.

Thomas Tripodianos

The Gorman family's attorney, who warned against growing complacency about public safety.

Brandon Johnson

The mayor of Chicago, who has been criticized by the Gorman family over their daughter's death.

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What they’re saying

“I want to say this gently, but honestly, as a mom, I'm angry. I'm like completely heartbroken, and we are going to fight for justice for our sweet Sheridan, and we're going to fight for change.”

— Jessica Gorman, Sheridan Gorman's mother

“At the heart of all of this, we all want the same thing for your children and for ours to be safe, to be protected, and to come home. Because at the end of the day, that's what this is all about. All of our kids, every single one of them, protecting them, loving them, showing up for them. And that is how we honor her.”

— Jessica Gorman, Sheridan Gorman's mother

“If we accept this, even silently, then we are accepting a reality where young people are not as safe as they should be. And that is not acceptable. And there must be justice. Real justice.”

— Thomas Tripodianos, Gorman family attorney

“Sheridan, you are deeply loved at Loyola. You are deeply missed, and you will live on in the lives you touched and forever changed.”

— Steven Betancourt, Director of campus ministry, Loyola University Chicago

What’s next

The suspect, Jose Medina-Medina, appeared in court on Friday and was ordered held in custody. He faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, aggravated assault, and unlawful possession of a firearm.

The takeaway

This tragic case has sparked outrage and renewed debate over immigration policies, public safety, and the need for accountability. It serves as a somber reminder of the devastating impact that illegal immigration can have on local communities, and underscores the importance of securing the border and enforcing immigration laws to protect innocent lives.