- Former Illinois sheriff's deputy Sean Grayson fatally shot Sonya Massey in her home, leading to his conviction for murder and subsequent sentencing.
- At Grayson’s sentencing, Sontae Massey spoke against the former deputy’s request, stating, “I’m not sure that I can write, speak or articulate anything that can encompass the devastation that Sean Grayson has created for our family.”
- Grayson died in prison just six months into his sentence, prompting Sontae Massey to express that the death 'doesn't feel like justice' and that the family is still waiting for accountability.
- The case surrounding Sonya Massey's death prompted anti-racism protests, a federal justice department review, and led to Illinois Governor JB Pritzker signing a law requiring stricter background checks for policing hires.
- Sangamon County officials agreed to a $10 million settlement for Massey’s family as part of the fallout from the case.
- Sontae Massey noted that the family has 'been asked to carry more than most people can imagine today,' particularly Sonya’s mother, Donna, and expressed anger over Grayson’s early death.
- Sontae Massey emphasized that the loss of Sonya remains profound, stating, 'Sonya should still be here. That is the loss we are still living with.'
The family of Sonya Massey is grappling with the aftermath of her murder and the recent death of Sean Grayson, the former sheriff's deputy convicted in her killing.
Grayson, who was sentenced to 20 years for second-degree murder, died just six months into his term due to stage three colon cancer that had spread to his liver and lungs.
In a poignant statement, Sontae Massey, Sonya's cousin, expressed that Grayson's death 'doesn't feel like justice' and emphasized the ongoing pain for their family: “It doesn’t give my aunt back her daughter. And it doesn’t give our family the accountability we’re still waiting for.”
Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old Black woman, was fatally shot by Grayson during a July 2024 encounter captured on body camera video. The footage revealed Grayson threatening her before firing three shots, killing her.
The incident sparked anti-racism protests and led to a federal justice department review, prompting Illinois Governor JB Pritzker to sign a law requiring stricter background checks for police hires.
In early 2025, Sangamon County officials agreed to a $10 million settlement for Massey’s family, but the emotional toll remains heavy. Sontae Massey noted, “I’m angry.” Grayson’s death adds another layer of grief for Sonya’s mother, Donna, who continues to bear the weight of her daughter’s loss.
“Sontae Massey said the family is still waiting for accountability, noting 'Sonya should still be here.' The case had already prompted a $10m settlement from Sangamon county and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker signed a law requiring stricter background checks for policing hires.”
The Guardian
