Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old woman, died from a gunshot wound to the head after being shot by a Sangamon County deputy. The autopsy report confirmed that she was shot beneath her left eye. Massey was shot in her home on July 6 after deputies responded to her 911 call about a possible prowler. Body camera footage showed Deputy Sean Grayson threatening to shoot Massey before opening fire when she picked up a pot of boiling water. Grayson did not render aid after the shooting and discouraged his partner from doing so. He was fired by the department and indicted on charges of first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct. Grayson pleaded not guilty and remains in custody without bail. Sheriff Jack Campbell called Grayson’s actions “unjustifiable” and “reckless.” Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, representing Massey’s family, called Grayson’s firing and arrest a step toward justice for Massey’s loved ones, especially her children. An Illinois State Police summary of the shooting stated that Massey was distraught and not thinking clearly. Massey threw the pot of boiling water before Grayson fired three times, striking her once in the face. Massey’s family and attorney are seeking justice for her tragic death.
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Sonya Massey’s cause of death confirmed to be a gunshot wound to the head, according to autopsy report
