Former Deputy Sentenced to 20 Years for Killing Sonya Massey

Sean Grayson was convicted of second-degree murder for the 2024 fatal shooting of Massey, a Black woman who called 911 to report a possible intruder.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 11:31am

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Sean Grayson, a former Sangamon County sheriff's deputy, was sentenced to 20 years in prison for the 2024 fatal shooting of Sonya Massey, a Black woman who called 911 to report a possible intruder at her home in Springfield, Illinois. Grayson was convicted of second-degree murder in October 2025 and will also have a two-year mandatory supervised release.

Why it matters

The case highlights ongoing concerns about police use of force, particularly against Black individuals, and the need for accountability and reform within law enforcement. Massey's family expressed fear of calling the police after her death, underscoring the broader impact on community trust.

The details

Body camera footage showed Grayson, who was inside Massey's home, pointing to a pot of boiling water on her stove and telling her to "Walk away from your hot steaming water." Massey then appears to pour the water into the sink and says, "I rebuke you in the name of Jesus." Grayson then threatens to shoot her, and as Massey briefly rises with her hands up, Grayson shoots her three times in the face, killing her.

  • On July 6, 2024, Sonya Massey called 911 to report a possible intruder at her home in Springfield, Illinois.
  • In October 2025, Sean Grayson was convicted of second-degree murder for Massey's death.
  • On January 29, 2026, Grayson was sentenced to 20 years in prison for the fatal shooting.

The players

Sean Grayson

A former Sangamon County sheriff's deputy who was convicted of second-degree murder for the 2024 fatal shooting of Sonya Massey.

Sonya Massey

A Black woman who was fatally shot by Sean Grayson in July 2024 after she called 911 to report a possible intruder at her home in Springfield, Illinois.

Donna Massey

Sonya Massey's mother, who delivered a victim impact statement at Grayson's sentencing hearing.

Malachi Massey

Sonya Massey's son, who delivered a victim impact statement at Grayson's sentencing hearing.

Summer Massey

Sonya Massey's daughter, who was 15 years old when her mother died and delivered a victim impact statement at Grayson's sentencing hearing.

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What they’re saying

“I wish there was something I could do to bring her back. I wish this didn't happen. I wish they [Massey's family] didn't have to go through this experience. I am very sorry.”

— Sean Grayson

“Today, I'm afraid to call the police in fear that I might end up like Sonya.”

— Donna Massey, Sonya Massey's mother

“I had to step up at 17. I had nowhere to go or nothing. I was just lost. I'm figuring it out a little bit now, but I still need my mom ... It's like a part of me is dead.”

— Malachi Massey, Sonya Massey's son

“Since her death, I have not been the same person.”

— Summer Massey, Sonya Massey's daughter

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Sean Grayson out on bail pending his appeal.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing need for police reform, accountability, and improved community relations, especially in incidents involving the use of force against Black individuals. Massey's family's fear of calling the police underscores the broader impact on public trust in law enforcement.