Authorities released body camera footage on Monday showing Sonya Massey’s last moments before she was shot by police in Springfield, Illinois.
Massey, 36, was killed on July 6 after calling the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office because she was scared someone might be outside her home.
Former deputy Sean Grayson is accused of shooting Massey in the face. He and another deputy were sent to her home around 1 a.m. Grayson has been charged with first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and misconduct. He has pleaded not guilty.
In the footage, Grayson and another deputy knock on Massey’s door. When she opens it, she says, “Please don’t hurt me.” Grayson replies, “Why would I hurt you? You called us.” The deputies checked around her house and didn’t find anyone, then asked if she needed anything else. Grayson also asks if she’s okay mentally, and she says yes.
As Massey is closing the door, she thanks the deputies and tells them a black SUV in her driveway doesn’t belong to her. The deputies then enter her home and ask for her name.
Massey goes to her stove and picks up a pot. She says, “Where you goin’?” and Grayson responds, “Away from your hot, steaming water.” Massey then says, “I rebuke you in the name of Jesus.”
Grayson tells her, “You better f——- not I swear to God I’ll f——- shoot you in your f——- face” before pulling out his gun. Massey says, “OK, I’m sorry!” and ducks. The second deputy also draws his gun. Grayson yells, “Drop the f——- pot!”
Three gunshots are heard. The video shows that Massey had let go of the pot when she ducked. The deputies call for emergency help. Grayson says, “Nah, headshot dude, she’s done,” and decides not to use his medical kit.
Massey is taken to the hospital but is declared dead. A review found Grayson’s actions unjustified, as he should have de-escalated the situation. Grayson was fired from the sheriff’s office.
Sheriff Jack Campbell said Grayson made an “unjustifiable and reckless decision” and that Massey’s family deserves answers. President Joe Biden expressed his heartbreak and called for justice. Attorney Ben Crump, representing Massey’s family, questioned if race played a role and demanded equal justice for Massey.
Grayson’s next court date is set for August 26.