A former Illinois sheriff’s deputy, Sean Grayson, has been convicted of second-degree murder in the killing of Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old mother of two who called 911 to report a suspected intruder at her home near Springfield.

The tragic incident occurred on July 6, 2024, when Massey was fatally shot after seeking help from law enforcement. Grayson, 31, claimed he opened fire because he believed Massey was about to throw a pot of boiling water at him.

Originally charged with first-degree murder, Grayson was found guilty of the lesser charge after jurors determined his actions were reckless but not premeditated. He now faces a possible sentence of up to 20 years in prison.

The Sonya Massey murder case reignited national debate about police brutality and racial justice in the United States. At the time, President Joe Biden remarked that Massey “should be alive today,” a statement that echoed widespread outrage over the killing.

Prosecutor John Milhiser told jurors during closing arguments that Grayson had “lost control and snapped,” arguing that his behavior demonstrated a complete disregard for human life.

Massey’s death has since become another painful reminder of the ongoing challenges in police accountability, sparking renewed calls for reform within U.S. law enforcement agencies.

The conviction marks a significant step toward justice for the Massey family and may influence how future cases of police violence are prosecuted.