Former Deputy Sentenced to 20 Years for Killing Sonya Massey

Sean Grayson apologizes to Massey family as he receives 20-year sentence for 2024 fatal shooting

Jan. 29, 2026 at 8:07pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

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 apologized to Massey's family during the sentencing hearing.

Why it matters

The case sparked outrage over the use of lethal force by law enforcement against a Black civilian and highlighted ongoing concerns about police accountability and racial disparities in the criminal justice system. 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 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,' before Grayson threatens to shoot her. As Massey briefly rises with her hands up, Grayson shoots her three times in the face, killing her. Grayson claimed he believed Massey was going to throw the scalding water on him and was scared.

  • On July 6, 2024, Sonya Massey was fatally shot by Sean Grayson.
  • In October 2025, Grayson was convicted of second-degree murder.
  • On January 30, 2026, Grayson was sentenced to 20 years in prison.

The players

Sean Grayson

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

Sonya Massey

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

Donna Massey

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

Malachi Massey

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

Summer Massey

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

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

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 to be released on bail while he appeals his conviction.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges of police accountability and the disproportionate impact of police violence on communities of color. It underscores the need for comprehensive reforms to address racial disparities in the criminal justice system and rebuild trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.