The family of an 18-year-old Loyola University Chicago student, tragically killed near her campus by a masked assailant, is seeking answers as authorities continue their search for a suspect.

Sheridan Gorman was walking with friends at Tobey Prinz Beach, less than a mile from the university’s Illinois campus, when she was fatally shot in the head around 1 a.m. on Thursday, as reported by WLS.

“Our cherished daughter, Sheridan, was cruelly taken from us this morning in Chicago. There’s no gentle way to put it—this was murder,” her family shared in a statement to NBC Chicago. “Sheridan brightened our lives. Her very presence made people feel valued, secure, and loved. She embodied her faith through acts of kindness, compassion, and joy, and cherished her family and friends deeply.”

The tragic event occurred when a male suspect approached the group and opened fire, hitting Gorman in the head, according to FOX 32.

Sheridan Gorman is seen smiling with the Chicago skyline in the backdrop. (Sheridan G. Gorman via Instagram)

Gorman was declared deceased at the scene.

Police said Gorman was not the intended target in the shooting, and authorities are working to find the person responsible for her death, WLS reported.

A campus safety alert sent to students indicated the shooting occurred around 1:15 a.m. on the Tobey Beach pier and described the offender as wearing a face covering.

Sheridan Gorman was killed after being shot in the head while taking a walk with friends at Tobey Prinz Beach, located less than a mile from the Illinois campus, around 1 a.m. on Thursday, according to reports. (Sheridan G. Gorman via Instagram)

The alert added that authorities in Chicago are investigating potential ties to other recent incidents of violence in the area. 

In a letter sent to students Thursday morning, Loyola University Chicago President Mark C. Reed confirmed Gorman’s death while addressing the campus community. 

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

“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.”

Sheridan Gorman, a New York native, was reportedly only a few months away from completing her freshman year at Loyola University Chicago in Illinois. (Sheridan G. Gorman via Instagram)

The university added that, based on available information, there is no ongoing threat to campus. 

“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.

The Yorktown Heights, New York, native was reportedly only a few months away from completing her freshman year at the university. 

A description of the suspect has not yet been released by authorities, and no arrests have been made. 

The Chicago Police Department did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.