Sean Grayson, former Sangamon County deputy convicted in killing of Sonya Massey, dies in prison, attorney says

Updated on: August 23, 2026 / 11:41 PM CDT / CBS Chicago

Sean Grayson, former Sangamon County deputy convicted in killing of Sonya Massey, dies in prison, attorney says

TL;DR

  • Sean Grayson, convicted of murdering Sonya Massey, died in prison on Sunday.
  • Grayson was 32 years old and battling Stage 4 colon cancer.
  • He was serving a 20-year sentence for second-degree murder.
  • His medical release request, citing advanced colon cancer, was denied last month.
  • Massey's family stated Grayson's death does not bring her back but offered prayers for peace.
  • Bodycam footage showed Grayson threatening Massey before shooting her three times.
  • Grayson's former partner testified he did not fear Massey, but feared Grayson, and only unholstered his weapon because Grayson did.