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Illinois Deputy Indicted for Murder in Fatal Shooting of 911 Caller

Deputy Sean Grayson faces multiple charges after shooting Sonya Massey, who sought police help for a possible intruder.

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A home in Springfield, Ill. stands Thursday, July 18, 2024. Prosecutors have charged a sheriff's deputy with the murder of Sonya Massey and accuse Sean Grayson of shooting the Black woman in the face on July 6, 2024, while responding to her report of an intruder at her home.
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Overview

  • Sonya Massey, 36, was shot in the face by Deputy Sean Grayson after calling 911 to report a possible prowler.
  • Grayson, who has been fired, is charged with first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct.
  • Prosecutors allege Grayson discouraged his partner from rendering aid to Massey, who later died from her injuries.
  • Grayson has pleaded not guilty and was denied pretrial release; body camera footage is expected to be released soon.
  • Massey's family and community leaders are calling for justice and police reform in response to the incident.