Former Illinois Deputy Convicted of Killing Black Woman

Sean Grayson faces up to 20 years in prison for fatal shooting of Sonya Massey

Jan. 30, 2026 at 6:31pm

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Sean Grayson, a former Sangamon County sheriff's deputy, is set to be sentenced on Thursday after being convicted in October 2025 of second-degree murder for the July 2024 fatal shooting of Sonya Massey, a Black woman who called 911 to report a possible intruder at her home in Springfield, Illinois. Grayson could be sentenced to four to 20 years in prison or he could be sentenced to probation, according to prosecutors.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing concerns about police use of force, particularly against Black individuals, and the need for greater accountability and reform within law enforcement. The fatal shooting of Sonya Massey, who called the police for help, has devastated her family and raised questions about the training and decision-making of officers in high-stress situations.

The details

Body camera footage shows Grayson, who was inside Massey's home, pointing to a pot of boiling water on her stove and saying "Walk away from your hot steaming water." Massey then appears to pour the water into the sink and repeats the deputy's phrase before saying "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.

  • Sonya Massey was fatally shot by Sean Grayson on July 6, 2024.
  • Grayson was convicted of second-degree murder in October 2025.
  • Grayson's sentencing hearing is scheduled for Thursday.

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.

Sonya Massey

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

Donna Massey

The mother of shooting victim Sonya Massey.

Sontae Massey

Sonya Massey's cousin, who said her death "shattered" the family.

Malachi and Summer

Sonya Massey's teenage children, who are expected to deliver impact statements during Grayson's sentencing hearing.

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What they’re saying

“I'm a little anxious. I think I speak for the family when I say that. You know, there's a lot of feelings involved, particularly her children.”

— Sontae Massey, Sonya Massey's cousin

“Sonya Massey's final words before being shot with her hands up were, "I'm sorry.”

— Assistant State Attorney

What’s next

The judge will decide on Thursday whether to sentence Sean Grayson to four to 20 years in prison or to probation.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the ongoing need for police reform, de-escalation training, and greater accountability for officers who use excessive force, especially against Black individuals. The Massey family's grief and calls for justice underscore the deep impact these incidents have on communities.