YORKTOWN, New York (WABC) — The first public remarks were made from the family of local college student Sheridan Gorman, who was killed in Chicago. Sheridan’s parents, Jessica and Thomas Gorman and sister, Madelon Gorman, spoke on Saturday at a vigil in Yorktown, where she grew up. Their pain is both palpable and piercing.
“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.
Sheridan’s parents fought through tears to honor their daughter. The 18-year-old was shot in the head last week near the campus of Loyola University, where she was a freshman.
“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.
The suspect is Jose Medina, a Venezuelan migrant. In court on Friday, his public defender said Medina was shot in the head seven years ago and was brain damaged.
Sheridan’s mother vowed to get justice for her daughter.
“As a mom I’m angry. I’m like completely heartbroken,” she said.
Sheridan’s sister Madelon is just 11 months older than she was.
“I don’t know how to do this without you yet. I promise I will carry you out with me in everything I do,” Madelon said.
People at the vigil wore green and white in honor of Gorman. Her father said it was another sign of the love everyone felt for her.
“Seeing the green and white I know something. That joy didn’t just last in our home. It lives here,” he said.
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