The fatal shooting of 18-year-old Loyola University student Sheridan Gorman has reignited debate over Illinois’ sanctuary state status, as Angel Parents demand accountability for what they describe as a 'preventable' tragedy. The suspect, Jose Medina-Medina, a Venezuelan national, was apprehended by U.S. Border Patrol in May 2023 but was later released into the country despite a subsequent arrest for shoplifting.
Angel Parents Speak Out
For Angel Parents Jennifer Bos and Joe Abraham, the loss hits close to home. Abraham’s daughter Katie was killed by an illegal immigrant in January 2025, and he has been vocal about the lack of responsiveness from Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker. 'This was preventable and should have never happened. We just don’t have serious leaders in Illinois,' Abraham said.
They’re going to have so many sleepless nights. I know the exact questions that are going to run through their head, and my heart goes to them. I pray for them every night for strength to get through this and find some comfort.
Call for Policy Changes
Bos, whose daughter Megan disappeared in 2025 and was later found dead behind the home of an illegal immigrant, emphasized the need for systemic changes. 'They’re going to have to fight for themselves and for their daughter. They’re going to have to fight for that justice because Illinois does not give it to you,' Bos said.
Pritzker’s office issued a statement expressing condolences to Gorman’s family and affirming that crime has no place in Chicago streets. However, critics argue that Illinois’ sanctuary policies undermine public safety and have called for stricter enforcement of immigration laws.
The Department of Homeland Security confirmed that Medina-Medina was apprehended and released prior to the fatal shooting, raising questions about the efficacy of current immigration enforcement policies.