A quiet morning in Rogers Park turned into a scene of tragedy Thursday.
An 18-year-old woman was shot and killed while walking with her friends.
The shooting happened near a beach close to Loyola University.
Chicago police responded to the scene in the 1000-block of West Pratt Boulevard.
The incident took place around 1:30 a.m. at a pier at Tobey Prinz Beach.
Loyola University officials later identified the victim as Sheridan Gorman.
Gorman was a student at the university.
According to ABC7 Chicago, the victim was with a group when a male suspect approached them on foot.
The suspect was reportedly wearing a face covering at the time.
Police say the man pulled out a gun and began firing toward the group.
Gorman was struck in the head by the gunfire.
She was pronounced dead at the scene by responding officers.
No other injuries were reported among the group of friends.
Investigators believe the young woman was not the intended target of the shooting.
A neighbor told reporters she initially mistook the gunfire for a firework.
She described hearing “blood curdling screams” roughly 20 minutes after the initial “pop.”
Loyola University released a statement calling the event a “tragic loss.”
The school confirmed they are in close contact with law enforcement during the investigation.
University officials stated there is currently no ongoing threat to the campus community.
Counseling services have been made available for students grieving the loss.
Recent History
Rogers Park is known for its vibrant student life and scenic lakefront views.
Tobey Prinz Beach is a frequent gathering spot for those living in the area.
Residents say students and neighbors often walk their dogs near the pier.
While the neighborhood is generally considered quiet, North Side residents have expressed growing concerns over lakefront safety.
In recent years, Chicago has seen a rise in late-night incidents near public parks and beaches.
Similar shootings have occurred in neighboring areas like Edgewater and Uptown.
Community members noted that the lack of cameras near the beach makes the area feel more dangerous after dark.
A vigil for Sheridan Gorman is scheduled to take place on the Loyola campus at 7 p.m.
