July 23rd 2024.
A tragic incident has come to light, revealing the horrific moment when a woman lost her life after calling 911 for help. The victim, Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old black woman, made the call on July 6 to report a possible prowler at her home in Springfield, Illinois. More than two weeks later, on Monday, the Illinois State Police released a 36-minute-long video with body camera footage from the two Sangamon County sheriff's deputies who responded to her call.
The footage shows Deputy Sean Grayson and a colleague talking to Massey, who is seated on her couch, looking through her purse and belongings after being asked to present her ID. Massey then gets up to turn off a pot of boiling water on her stove, and Grayson's colleague can be heard saying that he is stepping away from the hot steaming water. Massey responds by saying, "I rebuke you in the name of Jesus." The deputy doesn't seem to understand and asks her to repeat herself. Massey reiterates her statement, but before she can finish, Grayson threatens her, saying, "You better not or I swear to God I'll shoot you in the face."
As Massey apologizes and ducks behind the counter, Grayson points a gun at her and orders her to drop the pot. Both deputies can be heard shouting, "Drop the pot!" and seconds later, several gunshots are heard. One of the deputies announces, "Shots fired," and it is later revealed that one of the bullets struck Massey in the face. Despite this, Grayson did not attempt to render aid to Massey, while his partner did until first responders arrived.
Massey was taken to a nearby hospital, where she was pronounced dead. The incident has sparked outrage and protests, with many comparing it to other high-profile cases of violence against black people, such as Breonna Taylor. Grayson, who was fired, arrested, and indicted last week, is facing serious charges, including first-degree murder and aggravated battery. He has pleaded not guilty.
In the aftermath of this tragedy, President Joe Biden has expressed his condolences to Massey's family and has called for justice to be served. He stated, "I am heartbroken for her children and her entire family as they face this unthinkable and senseless loss." He also urged Congress to pass the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act to prevent such incidents from happening in the future.
This incident has left a deep scar on the community of Springfield and has raised concerns about the use of excessive force by law enforcement officers. It is a painful reminder of the need for meaningful and lasting change in the criminal justice system. As we wait for the case to be prosecuted, let us pray for comfort for Massey's loved ones and for justice to prevail.
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