The Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office in Illinois released body-camera footage showing the fatal police shooting of Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old Black woman who had called 911 for help. The incident occurred on July 6 in Springfield, Illinois, and has resulted in murder charges against Deputy Sean Grayson.
The 36-minute video released by Illinois State Police includes footage from the body cameras of the two deputies who responded to Massey’s call for assistance. The footage shows a confrontation between Massey and the deputies inside her home, where Grayson ultimately fired three shots, resulting in Massey's death.
Grayson, 30, has been indicted on three counts of first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct. He has pleaded not guilty and was denied pretrial release.
The release of the video has sparked outrage and calls for justice from civil rights activists and Massey’s family. Attorney Ben Crump, who represents the family, highlighted the need for accountability in cases of police violence against Black individuals.
The footage reveals that Grayson did not activate his body camera until after the shooting, while the other deputy had his camera on from the beginning of the encounter. A use-of-force expert concluded that the deadly force used by Grayson was not justified.
President Joe Biden expressed condolences to Massey’s family and called for swift action in passing the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act. Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul described the footage as “horrific” and emphasized the importance of independent investigations in cases of officer-involved shootings.
The sheriff’s office has terminated Grayson, stating that his actions did not align with their standards. The community and officials are urging for calm as the case progresses through the criminal justice system.
