Newspaper Apologizes For Calling Alleged Killer An ‘Illegal Immigrant’

The Loyola Phoenix is facing backlash after issuing an apology and revising its coverage of the killing of Loyola University Chicago freshman Sheridan Gorman, following criticism over its use of the term “illegal immigrant” to describe the suspect.

Jose Medina

The student newspaper initially reported that Jose Medina-Medina, a Venezuelan national charged in the fatal shooting, was in the U.S. illegally, citing information from the Department of Homeland Security. Its original headline referred to him as an “immigrant man” and included his immigration status in the story.

The publication later updated the article, removing that language and instead identifying the suspect as a “Rogers Park resident,” referencing the Chicago neighborhood near campus where the shooting occurred. In an editor’s note, the paper said the original headline “didn’t reflect the most important elements in the story” and was changed quickly “to prevent any further harm to affected community members.”

Editors also said the term “illegal immigrant,” though sourced from federal authorities, does not align with Associated Press style or the paper’s values. “No human’s existence is illegal,” the note stated, explaining the decision to revise the wording.

The change has drawn sharp criticism from some readers, who argue the original reporting was accurate and that the revision downplayed relevant details about the suspect.