Crime
Loyola University Chicago Student Sheridan Gorman shot and killed near Rogers Park beach
CHICAGO — Authorities are investigating a fatal overnight shooting that claimed the life of an 18-year-old student near the campus of Loyola University Chicago in the Rogers Park neighborhood.
According to the Chicago Police Department, officers responded at approximately 1:30 a.m. to reports of a person shot near the intersection of Sheridan Road and Pratt Boulevard, in close proximity to Tobey Prinz Beach Park and Columbia Beach.
Upon arrival, officers and Loyola University Police located the victim, identified as Sheridan Gorman, suffering from a gunshot wound to the head.
She was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Preliminary information indicates that Gorman was walking with a group of friends along the lakefront when an unidentified male approached and opened fire in their direction before fleeing on foot. No other injuries were reported.
At this time, no suspect description has been released, and no arrests have been made.
The motive for the shooting remains unclear. Detectives assigned to Area Three are actively investigating the case.
In a statement, Loyola University Chicago President Mark C. Reed confirmed the victim was a student and expressed profound sorrow over the loss.
University officials stated there is no known ongoing threat to the campus community based on the information currently available.
The university has made counseling and support services available to students and staff, and a vigil is scheduled to be held at Madonna della Strada Chapel to honor Gorman’s life.
Campus Safety officials continue to work closely with the Chicago Police Department as the investigation progresses.
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward.
The incident remains under active investigation.
Crime
17-Year-Old Javohn Pitts Critically Injured in Accidental Shooting During FaceTime Call in Elsmere, Kentucky
A 17-year-old teenager, identified as Javohn Pitts, remains in critical condition after being shot in the head during an incident involving a handgun at a residence in Elsmere, Kentucky, on Saturday. Police say the shooting appears to have occurred while two juveniles were showing the firearm to others during a FaceTime call.
The incident prompted an emergency response in Northern Kentucky and left the teenager with potentially life-threatening injuries. He was transported by helicopter to a Cincinnati hospital, where he continues to receive medical treatment.
According to the Elsmere Police Department, officers were dispatched to a reported shooting in the 100 block of Garvey Avenue early Saturday afternoon.
When first responders arrived, they found Javohn Pitts suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. Due to the seriousness of his injuries, emergency personnel arranged for him to be airlifted to University of Cincinnati Medical Center.
Pitts remains hospitalized in critical condition, according to the information provided by police. Authorities have not released further details about his medical condition or prognosis.
During their investigation, police recovered a 9mm handgun from the residence.
Investigators believe the shooting happened while Pitts and another juvenile, who was acquainted with him, were displaying the handgun to other people during a FaceTime call. At some point during the incident, the firearm discharged, striking Pitts in the head.
Although the incident is being described as an apparent accidental shooting, authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the discharge and the events leading up to it.
A juvenile suspect was subsequently arrested in connection with the incident. Police reported that the suspect was acquainted with Pitts and has been charged with second-degree assault with a deadly weapon.
Because the individual is a juvenile, authorities have not publicly released the suspect’s identity.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information about the incident may be released as authorities continue reviewing the evidence.
Police are asking anyone who may have information about the shooting to contact the Kenton County Emergency Communication Center at 859-356-3191 or the Elsmere Police Department at 859-474-4785.
Information from witnesses or anyone familiar with the circumstances may help investigators establish a clearer account of what happened inside the Garvey Avenue residence.
At just 17 years old, Javohn Pitts is facing a serious medical battle following the shooting. His critical condition has left those who care about him hoping for positive news as he receives treatment.
The incident is also a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with handling firearms, particularly when a weapon is displayed or handled without proper safety precautions. A firearm can discharge unexpectedly, with consequences that may permanently change lives.
As the investigation continues, thoughts remain with Javohn Pitts, his family, and everyone hoping for his recovery. May he receive the care and support he needs during this difficult time.