Massive turnout for Yorktown, NY vigil for murdered Loyola student Sheridan Gorman

The family of an 18-year-old college student killed near a Chicago campus by an illegal immigrant spoke publicly for the first time over the weekend, as authorities continue proceedings against the suspect in her death. The remarks came during a vigil held in Yorktown, New York, where the victim, Sheridan Gorman, grew up.

Gorman, a freshman at Loyola University, was shot in the head last week near campus. She died from her injuries, leaving behind her parents and an older sister. The gathering drew a large crowd, many wearing green and white in her honor.

In court on Friday, the suspect, identified as Jose Medina, a Venezuelan illegal immigrant, appeared with a public defender who stated Medina had suffered a gunshot wound to the head seven years ago and was left brain-damaged. The case is ongoing.

At the vigil, Gorman’s parents, Jessica and Thomas Gorman, addressed the crowd alongside her sister, Madelon. Their statements were brief but emotional, as they described the impact of the loss.

"Sheridan, she was our joy, our collective joy. And now that joy is gone," said her father.

"She was the best of us all," her mother added, according to ABC7.

The family also acknowledged the support they have received from the community, which has been significant in the days following the shooting.

"We're humbled by your kindness, by your words - and by your love," her mother said.

"We are heartbroken, but we are not alone. And because of you, we are being carried through this," said her father.

Madelon Gorman, who is 11 months older than Sheridan, spoke about her sister directly.

"I don't know how to do this without you yet. I promise I will carry you out with me in everything I do," she said.

Gorman’s mother also indicated the family intends to pursue justice.

"As a mom I'm angry. I'm like completely heartbroken," she said.

The vigil marked the first public statements from the family since the killing.