Authorities released body camera footage of Sonya Massey’s final moments before she was shot by law enforcement at her home in Springfield, Illinois. Massey, 36, called the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office because she was afraid there might be a prowler outside, and former deputy Sean Grayson is accused of shooting her in the face. Grayson has been indicted on charges of first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct, and He pleaded not guilty. In the footage, Massey is seen holding a pot but does not approach the deputies before being shot three times. The use-of-force review found that while Grayson was justified in pointing his weapon at Massey, the shooting was not justified as he advanced toward her and put himself at risk.
Despite the use-of-force review findings, Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell expressed disappointment in Grayson’s actions, stating that Grayson was fired and will never work in law enforcement again. Campbell said Massey’s death was due to an “unjustifiable and reckless decision” made by Grayson, who had other options available that he should have used. President Joe Biden also commented on the killing, stating that Massey should still be alive and praising prosecutors for their swift actions. He expressed heartbreak for Massey’s children and family, emphasizing that all Americans should be able to call for help without fearing for their lives.
Massey’s attorney, Ben Crump, raised concerns about whether race played a role in the shooting, as many in the community believe Grayson’s actions may have been different if Massey was white. Crump called for equal justice for Massey and emphasized that they want the same outcome for Grayson as they would for a white woman. Grayson’s next court date is scheduled for August 26, and Crump is advocating for justice for Massey, who he referred to as a “Black queen.” The body camera footage showed Grayson and another deputy knocking on Massey’s door, and after a brief interaction, Grayson pulled out his gun and shot Massey three times.
In the footage, Massey can be heard pleading with Grayson not to hurt her and expressing gratitude for the deputies’ help. The situation escalated when Grayson threatened to shoot Massey if she did not drop the pot she was holding. Despite Massey letting go of the pot, Grayson shot her, causing her death. The second deputy attempted to provide aid to Massey by holding a towel to her head until medical help arrived. Grayson’s actions were found to be unjustifiable by both the sheriff’s office and the state police, leading to his termination.
The community and Massey’s family are seeking justice in her case, with calls for accountability and transparency in law enforcement actions. President Biden acknowledged the tragic loss of Massey’s life and emphasized the need for all Americans to be able to seek help without fear of violence. The case has raised questions about racial bias in policing and the need for reform to prevent similar incidents in the future. Massey’s family and their legal representatives are advocating for equal justice and accountability for those involved in her death.
