SANGAMON COUNTY, IL – A disturbing incident involving the fatal shooting of an unarmed Black woman by a white sheriff’s deputy has led to significant legal repercussions in Sangamon County. Sonya Massey, 36, was shot in her own home by Deputy Sean Grayson after she had called 911 to report a suspected prowler.
The shooting occurred in the early hours of July 6, and body camera footage from the incident was released by the state attorney’s office this Monday afternoon. The footage reveals tense moments inside Massey’s home where Deputy Grayson, along with another deputy, responded to Massey’s call. Initially interacting on her front porch, the situation escalated after entering the house.
Massey, appearing hesitant, interacted with the deputies, leading to a critical moment when she removed a pot of boiling water from the stove. Grayson’s reaction to Massey’s movements was aggressive, and he fatally shot her after a brief verbal exchange. The footage shows Grayson did not activate his body camera until after the shooting.
Following the incident, Deputy Grayson was dismissed from his duties and has been charged with first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct. He has pleaded not guilty and is being held without bond.
