CHICAGO The murder trial of former Sangamon County Deputy Sean Grayson reached a critical point on Tuesday as the closing arguments wrapped up. Grayson faces charges of first-degree murder for the fatal shooting of Sonya Massey.

With arguments concluded, the jury has now taken on the responsibility of deliberating the case.

The incident dates back to July 2024, when a 911 call brought Grayson and his partner to Massey’s residence. Massey had called for help, fearing a potential break-in. A deadly encounter ensued following a dispute involving a pot of hot water.

While it is undisputed that Grayson fired the gun, the trial debates whether his actions were justified or not.

On Monday, Grayson testified on his own behalf, expressing concerns that Massey might have been under the influence of a substance. He admitted to not activating his body camera, a step his partner had taken upon arriving at the scene.