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An Illinois sheriff's deputy is facing charges after he fatally shot a Black woman while responding to her 911 call about a possible intruder in her home, authorities said.
According to PEOPLE, 30-year-old Sean Grayson was indicted on charges of first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct in connection to the killing of Sonya Massey, 36.
The indictment comes after Massey called 911 on July 6 to report a possible intruder in her home. Two Sangamon County Sheriff's deputies responded to the call in Springfield, Illinois.
According to the sheriff's office, deputies "conducted a search of the area" and “reported that shots had been fired, resulting in a female being struck by gunfire.” The two deputies didn't sustain any injuries in the shooting. The woman, later identified as Massey, was taken to a hospital where she later died.
Sangamon County State's Attorney John Milhiser identified Grayson as the deputy who "discharged his firearm, striking Ms. Massey and killing her,” according to a news release.
The events leading up to the shooting remain unclear. The sheriff's office worked with Illinois State Police on an investigation into the incident, which found Grayson unjustified in his use of deadly force.
Grayson was fired from the Sangamon County Sheriff's Office. Milheiser said body-camera footage of the incident would be made public on Monday (July 22).
“Today marks an important milestone in the pursuit of justice for Sonya Massey’s family. While nothing can undo the heinous actions of this officer, we hope the scales of justice will continue to hold him accountable and we will demand transparency at every step,” attorney Ben Crump said in a statement.
"This news is a step toward justice for Sonya’s loved ones, especially her children, who have endured unimaginable pain and suffering since they were notified of this tragedy. We remain committed to uncovering the truth of what happened and identifying the failures that allowed this tragic death to occur,” he added.
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