CHICAGO – Authorities in Chicago have detained a person of interest in connection with the tragic shooting of a Loyola University student that occurred on Thursday.

Sheridan Gorman, an 18-year-old student, was walking with friends at Tobey Prinz Beach, located just under a mile from the university campus, around 1 a.m. on Thursday.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

According to police reports, a man approached the group on foot, produced a firearm, and began shooting.

Gorman was struck in the head and tragically pronounced dead at the scene. Fortunately, no one else in the group was injured.

The young student, originally from New York, was nearing the completion of her freshman year. Officials indicate that she was not the intended victim of the shooting.

Her family has publicly expressed their grief, stating unequivocally, “this was murder.”

Gorman’s relatives described her as “the light of our lives,” saying, “she made people feel seen, safe, and loved simply by being who she was.”

Classmates gathered inside the chapel for a private vigil as the bell tolled and shared memories of Gorman on Thursday evening.

Students are also demanding more safety protocols moving forward.

Police did not immediately provide further information on Saturday.

The video in the player above is from a previous report.

INTERACTIVE SAFETY TRACKER Track crime and safety in your neighborhood