The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed that Jose Medina-Medina, a Venezuelan national accused of killing Loyola University Chicago student Sheridan Gorman, was apprehended and released into the U.S. during the Biden administration’s catch-and-release policy. Medina-Medina was first apprehended by U.S. Border Patrol on May 9, 2023, and subsequently released.
Prior Criminal Incident and Ongoing Investigation
DHS also verified that Medina-Medina was arrested in Chicago on June 19, 2023, for shoplifting and released again prior to the fatal shooting. Chicago police are investigating the March 19, 2026 shooting, which occurred near the Loyola University campus. Sources indicated the shooting was an apparent ambush by a gunman who wore a mask or face covering. Authorities recovered a firearm believed linked to the killing and are awaiting gunshot residue test results.
Calls for Enforcement and Official Responses
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) lodged an arrest detainer for Medina-Medina and urged Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker and Chicago sanctuary city officials to not release him from custody. Acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis of DHS referenced Sheriff Gorman’s death in calling for stricter enforcement of detainers for criminal illegal aliens in state custody. The suspect is reportedly quarantined for a potentially contagious condition.
Victim’s Family Statement and Context
Sheridan Gorman, an 18-year-old freshman from New York, was shot in the head after a gunman opened fire on her group near the lakefront. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Her family released a statement mourning her loss and criticizing sanctuary policies. Local records noted Medina-Medina was identified partly due to a distinct limp. The investigation remains active.
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