Sonya Massey shot by police in her home hours after 911 call

On July 5, 2021, Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old mother of two, was shot and killed by former Sangamon County deputy Sean Grayson in her Springfield, Illinois home. Earlier that day, her mother had called 911, expressing concerns about Massey's mental health, stating that she believed people were after her. Bodycam footage revealed Massey speaking calmly with officers, who were dispatched to check on her well-being. Despite her troubled state, she appeared cooperative and mentioned taking medication. The following day, Massey called police again to report a suspected intruder. When officers arrived, they found her with a pot of boiling water on the stove. Grayson, who has been described as a 'bully,' threatened to shoot her and ultimately did so, hitting her in the face. The incident raised serious questions about the appropriateness of Grayson's response, especially given the distance and cover he had from the situation. After the shooting, Grayson was criticized for his lack of urgency in providing medical assistance to Massey, even discarding his medical kit when emergency personnel arrived. He has since been charged with first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct. The case has drawn significant public attention, with civil rights attorney Ben Crump condemning the act as excessive and unnecessary. Massey's family is now seeking justice, highlighting the tragic circumstances surrounding her death and the broader implications for police conduct in mental health crises. The incident underscores the need for better training and protocols for law enforcement when dealing with individuals experiencing mental health issues.