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
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.