Illinois Sherriff Deputy Charged With Murder After Shooting The 911 Caller

A sheriff's deputy in the state of Illinois has been charged with murder after shooting a Black woman (who called 911) in the face.

On July 6, Sonya Massey, 36, was shot in her Springfield home just south of Chicago after she made a call to authorities about a potential trespasser on her property. The assailant charged with the murder of Massey is Sangamon County Deputy Sean Grayson.

Former Illinois Deputy Sean Grayson Charged With Murder

Authorities stated that the incident happened after a heated moment involving a boiling pot of water. Prosecutors claimed Grayson aggressively told Massey to drop the pot, to where she apologized and ducked for cover with her hands in the air, all before being fatally shot in the face.

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Prosecutors also stated that Grayson also told the other deputy on call not to get a medical kit.

Grayson, who has since been fired, has been indicted on charges of first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct.

It is clear that the deputy did not act as trained or in accourdance with our standards... With our badge we accept enourmous responsibility, and if that responsibility is abused, there should be consequences. - Sherrif Jack Campbell

Mourning The Life of Sonya Massey

According to ABC News, Governor J.B. Pritzker even weighed in on the tragedy stating,

I am enraged that another innocent Black woman had her life taken from her at the hands of a policer officer.

This incident is completely heartbreaking and unacceptable. Our hearts and prayers go to Sonya Massey, her family and friends at this time.