Loyola Chicago Student Fatally Shot Near Campus; Police Launch Search for Armed Suspect

A tragic incident unfolded early Thursday morning when a Loyola University Chicago student was fatally shot in a late-night attack near the campus. The suspect reportedly opened fire on a group of individuals walking in Rogers Park, according to university officials.

The shooting occurred at approximately 1:30 a.m. on West Pratt Boulevard, close to Loyola’s Lake Shore Campus, as reported by FOX 32 Chicago, citing information from local police.

Police stated that an 18-year-old woman, identified by Loyola as Sheridan Gorman, was with friends when a male suspect approached and fired shots in their direction.

Gorman was tragically hit in the head and was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities reported no other injuries in the incident.

In a photo shared on social media, Sheridan Gorman is seen posing with Loyola’s mascot during a campus event. (Image via Sheridan G. Gorman’s Instagram)

A safety alert issued to the student body detailed that the shooting occurred around 1:15 a.m. on the pier at Tobey Prinz Beach, also known as Pratt Avenue Beach. The suspect was described as wearing a face covering at the time of the shooting.

The alert also noted that Chicago police are investigating leads tied to other recent violent incidents in the district.

Sheridan Gorman stands outside Soldier Field ahead of a Chicago Bears game in Chicago. (Sheridan G. Gorman via Instagram)

Loyola University Chicago President Mark C. Reed addressed the campus community in a letter Thursday morning.

“It is with profound sadness that I write to share that one of our students, Sheridan Gorman, was killed earlier today,” Reed said. “This is a tragic loss, and our hearts go out to Sheridan’s family, loved ones, and all who knew her.”

The art deco Madonna della Strada Chapel on Loyola University campus on Lake Michigan. (Big Joe via Getty Images)

The university said it is working closely with law enforcement and, based on available information, there is no ongoing threat to campus. Counseling services have also been made available, and a vigil is scheduled for Thursday evening at Madonna della Strada Chapel.

Sheridan Gorman, an 18-year-old Loyola University Chicago student, was fatally shot near campus. (Sheridan G. Gorman via Instagram)

“We recognize that this news will be painful for members of our community. Please know that you do not have to navigate this alone,” Reed added.

Police have not released a description of the suspect, and no arrests have been made. The motive remains unclear, and detectives are still investigating.

Fox News Digital has reached out to the Chicago Police Department for comment, but did not immediately receive a response. 

Stepheny Price covers crime, including missing persons, homicides and migrant crime. Send story tips to stepheny.price@fox.com.