A jury has found former Sangamon County Sheriff's Deputy Sean Grayson guilty of second-degree murder in the July 2024 shooting death of Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old Black woman who had called 911 seeking help after believing someone was outside her home.

According to testimony presented during the trial, deputies responded to Massey's Springfield, Illinois residence. During the encounter, Massey picked up a pot containing hot water. Prosecutors argued Grayson unnecessarily escalated the situation, ultimately shooting Massey in the face despite her being unarmed.

Jurors also heard testimony that Grayson did not immediately render aid after the shooting.

The verdict concludes one of the nation's most closely watched police use-of-force cases. Grayson now faces sentencing, with the second-degree murder conviction carrying the possibility of a lengthy prison term under Illinois law.

The case sparked nationwide protests and renewed conversations about police training, use of force, and accountability.

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