Sean Grayson, Deputy Convicted in Sonya Massey Killing, Dies in Prison

Sean Grayson, the former Illinois sheriff’s deputy convicted of killing Sonya Massey, has died in prison while serving a 20-year sentence, according to his lawyer.

Grayson fatally shot Massey, a mother of two, inside her home in July 2024 after she called 911 for help. The case drew widespread attention and protests over police use of force.

He was convicted and sentenced for the killing. His death was reported on Sunday. No further details on the cause were immediately available.

The shooting occurred when Massey, who had called emergency services because she believed someone was outside her home, was confronted by deputies. Body-camera footage and subsequent investigations made the case a prominent example in debates about police accountability.

Massey’s family and civil rights advocates had followed the legal proceedings closely. Grayson’s death ends the possibility of further appeals or public statements from him regarding the incident.