CHICAGO, Illinois – The autopsy report of 36-year-old Sonya Massey has been released by authorities in central Illinois, confirming her cause of death as a gunshot wound to the head following a tragic incident involving a sheriff’s deputy in Springfield. The report detailed that Massey was shot just below her left eye, with the bullet exiting through the back of her upper neck, resulting in severe injuries that included a skull fracture, perforated carotid artery, and bleeding in the brain. Additionally, Massey sustained minor blunt force injuries to her leg.
The Sangamon County Sheriff’s deputy involved, Sean Grayson, has been charged with first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct in connection to Massey’s death. Despite pleading not guilty to all charges, Grayson remains in custody at the Sangamon County Jail awaiting trial, having been terminated from his position at the sheriff’s office following the fatal shooting.
In response to the autopsy findings, Massey’s family expressed ongoing emotional and mental struggles nearly three weeks after their loss. Massey’s son, Malachi Hill-Massey, shared the profound impact on his ability to sleep and described the profound difficulty faced by the family. Meanwhile, her uncle Raymond highlighted the trauma experienced by Massey’s daughter, emphasizing the pain felt by the entire family.
Vice President Kamala Harris reportedly reached out to Massey’s family to offer support during this challenging time. Allegations of a cover-up surrounding the fatal shooting have emerged, with Massey’s friends and relatives contesting initial claims made by law enforcement regarding the circumstances of her death. Protesters gathered in South Shore to demand justice for Massey, linking her tragic fate to broader issues of police violence and lack of accountability in the legal system.
As the investigation unfolds and calls for justice intensify, the community stands united in seeking transparency and accountability in the pursuit of truth and closure for Sonya Massey’s loved ones. Multiple rallies have been planned to advocate for justice and honor Massey’s memory, underscoring the significance of seeking accountability for those responsible for her untimely passing.