The autopsy findings on Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old Black woman fatally shot by a now-fired sheriff’s deputy in Illinois, confirm that she died from a gunshot wound to the head. The report also revealed minor blunt force injuries to her leg and that she weighed 112 pounds. Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, representing Massey’s family, scheduled a news conference in Springfield to discuss the case. A Chicago rally in support of Massey was also planned.
The sheriff’s deputy, Sean Grayson, who is white, pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct in Massey’s death. Grayson was fired by the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office following the incident. Authorities stated that Massey called 911 to report a suspected prowler, leading to a confrontation with deputies at her home where Grayson threatened to shoot her. The sheriff’s body camera video confirmed the events leading up to Massey’s death.
Grayson’s history as a law enforcement officer included short stints at multiple police departments and sheriff’s offices in central Illinois. Massey’s father, James Wilburn, called for Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell to resign, stating that Grayson should never have had a badge or gun. The case has sparked outrage and calls for justice in the community.
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