Justice in Focus: Former Deputy Faces Trial for Sonya Massey Murder

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PEORIA, Ill. (WCIA) — In the wake of a tragic incident that took place over a year ago, the trial concerning the shooting death of Sonya Massey by a Sangamon County Sheriff’s Deputy is set to commence on Monday in Peoria, with enhanced security measures firmly in place.

The trial of Sean Grayson has been relocated from Springfield to ensure an unbiased jury, amid concerns that impartiality might be compromised in the original location. WCIA 3’s Brandon Merano will be providing comprehensive coverage from Peoria as the trial unfolds.

Reflecting on the tragedy, the community continues to honor the memory of Sonya Massey, with family and friends gathering to celebrate her life and receive ongoing support, one year after her untimely passing.

The incident dates back to July 6, 2024, when Sonya Massey dialed 911 at approximately 12:30 a.m., reporting disturbing noises akin to someone “banging on the side of [her] house.” In response, deputies were dispatched and arrived at her residence around 12:50 a.m.

The situation escalated swiftly. Just 31 minutes after their arrival, at 1:21 a.m., Deputy Grayson discharged his service weapon, tragically striking Massey in the face as she was handling a pot of boiling water on the stove.

Body camera footage obtained by WCIA captures Deputy Grayson recounting the events multiple times, providing a narrative of what he claims transpired that night.

Later, Grayson added that he thought “she set it up on purpose.” Body camera footage also captured Grayson asking if Massey had any history of being “10-96” — meaning that the subject needs a mental health response.

Records show Massey and her mother made four 911 calls regarding Massey’s mental health in the 48 hours leading up to the shooting.

At 1:47 a.m., — just under an hour from when deputies were dispatched — Massey is pronounced dead.

Neither side is disputing Grayson shot Massey. The prosecution will likely argue Grayson’s use of force was unjustified and Massey posed little or no threat. The defense will likely say that Grayson feared for his life and was acting in self defense.

Grayson has been in jail since, despite multiple hearings hoping to get him out before trial because of his health. He is charged with first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm and official misconduct. The first-degree murder charge can carry a sentence of 20 years to life in prison. The aggravated battery charge could carry a sentence anywhere between six to 30 years, while the official misconduct charge could earn him between two to five years in prison.

Sangamon County State’s Attorney John Milhiser is prosecuting the case while defense attorneys Daniel Fultz and Mark Wykoff will represent Grayson.

Sangamon County Judge Ryan Cadigan will be presiding over the case. It was moved to Peoria County due to pretrial publicity in Springfield. Cadigan has already ruled most of Grayson’s past disciplinary history can’t be used as evidence, and the defense cannot bring up Sonya Massey’s mental health prior to calling 911. A jury of 12 will decide Grayson’s fate.