SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Two emergency calls were made from the residence of Sonya Massey, a Black woman fatally shot in the face by an Illinois sheriff’s deputy after seeking help through 911, according to records released on Wednesday.
In one urgent call, Massey’s mother expressed her concerns for her daughter’s mental well-being, stating her daughter was experiencing a “mental breakdown” and anxiously asked, “I don’t want you guys to hurt her.” She specifically requested that officers without prejudice be sent to the scene.
On another occasion, a caller from Massey’s address reported threats against her, and shortly after, Massey herself reported a neighbor attacking her with a brick.
The Sangamon County Sheriff’s Department continues to investigate whether Massey’s mental health history was communicated to the deputies responding to a report of a suspected prowler, which culminated in her tragic death on July 6.
Former deputy Sean Grayson, 30, faces severe charges including first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct regarding Massey’s shooting. He has pled not guilty and remains detained without bond.
In response to public records requests, Sheriff Jack Campbell disclosed Grayson’s personnel file, revealing past DUI convictions and detailing his employment history leading up to his dismissal on July 17, coinciding with his indictment. The sheriff reiterated that DUIs do not disqualify candidates and regarded Grayson’s multiple job changes as signs of ambition.
Grayson’s psychological evaluation, conducted on March 31, 2023, deemed him fit for duty but noted a need for caution in his decision-making.
Body cam footage captured the moments leading to the shooting. Just before 1 a.m. on July 6, Massey, confused and fearful, implored the deputies, “Don’t hurt me.” She struggled to produce her identification and requested her Bible. Following Grayson’s order to move a pot of water from the stove, she unexpectedly declared, “I rebuke you in the name of Jesus.” He then aimed his firearm, demanding she drop the water before discharging his weapon three times, hitting her below the left eye.
The investigation into Grayson’s conduct revealed he violated force usage protocols, neglected to activate his body camera, and failed to provide medical assistance.
The internal report highlighted that Grayson escalated to lethal force despite Massey’s non-threatening behavior while conversing with officers.
Family members have confirmed that Massey dealt with mental health challenges and had been in treatment. Her son, Malachi Hill Massey, stated she had briefly admitted herself to an inpatient program just prior to her death.
A caller from Massey’s home reported a threat around 9:30 p.m. on July 4, prompting police involvement. The following morning, her mother reported her daughter was in distress; she expressed concern that relying on police could lead to harm for her daughter.
Springfield police responded, noting Massey did not want to engage with medical personnel but was later assessed by EMTs.
A few hours later, Massey reported to deputies at a hospital that a neighbor had attacked her, claiming she was seeking mental health treatment and showing signs of distress from her recent experiences.
Twelve hours after her report, responding deputies observed broken windows on Massey’s SUV while searching her yard during the July 6 incident.
This case continues to draw attention as the community seeks answers about the protocols for handling mental health crises within law enforcement.
