New Details Emerge on Jose Medina, Suspect in Loyola Student Sheridan Gorman’s Death
New details have emerged about Jose Medina, the suspect in the killing of Loyola student Sheridan Gorman. Authorities say Medina shot and killed the 18-year-old freshman early Thursday in Rogers Park. He now faces first-degree murder and aggravated use of a firearm charges.
Incident and arrest
Witnesses reported seeing a man hiding near a pier as Gorman and friends walked past. They said the man wore all black clothing and a mask and then fired as the group ran.
Gorman was struck in the back and later died from her injuries. Police tracked surveillance video and arrested Medina at his nearby apartment on North Sheridan Road.
Evidence collected
Officers located clothing allegedly worn during the shooting. They also seized a .40-caliber handgun linked to shell casings at the scene.
A lobby camera showed Medina unmasked. Investigators used facial recognition and U.S. Customs and Border Protection records to confirm his identity.
Medical status and court timeline
Medina remains hospitalized at Illinois Masonic Hospital for treatment of tuberculosis. His pretrial detention hearing was postponed because of his medical condition.
Prosecutors say he is due back in court Friday, pending doctors’ approval for release. Local officials insist he must face Chicago charges before any transfer to federal custody.
Immigration and criminal history
The Department of Homeland Security identifies Medina as a 25-year-old Venezuelan national who entered the U.S. in 2023. DHS says he was arrested by Border Patrol that year but remained in Chicago.
Police records show a later 2023 arrest for retail theft at a Macy’s store. Court documents allege he failed to appear, prompting a warrant.
DHS has filed an ICE detainer asking to place Medina in federal custody for deportation proceedings. Local leaders, however, note he must answer to homicide charges first.
Reactions from officials and family
Religious and civic leaders expressed sorrow for the victim’s family. Cardinal Blase Cupich offered condolences and praised Sheridan’s life and character.
Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s office urged against politicizing the tragedy. Officials called for focus on public safety and resources to prevent violence.
President Donald Trump criticized federal immigration policy and praised ICE. Ald. Ray Lopez said the death highlighted gaps in current laws.
Family statements
An attorney for Gorman’s family criticized policy failures that allegedly allowed the suspect to remain free. The family vowed not to let the case fade from public view.
They also thanked police for a swift investigation and said they want full accountability. Officials, including Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza, said Medina should face the fullest legal consequences.
