President Joe Biden has addressed the killing of Sonya Massey, an unarmed Black woman, by an Illinois sheriff’s deputy in her home earlier this month. Massey, 36, was fatally shot by Deputy Sean Grayson after she called 911 to report a possible intruder. The incident, which was captured on body camera footage and recently released, showed the deputies initially having a routine conversation with Massey before Grayson asked her to drop a pot of hot water and then shot her in the face. Prosecutors have stated that Massey posed no threat to Grayson.
Biden expressed his deep sorrow in a statement on Facebook, saying, “I am heartbroken over this incident. Sonya Massey, a cherished mother, friend, daughter, and young Black woman, should be alive today. She called for help due to her concern about a possible intruder. As Americans, we should be able to seek assistance without fearing for our lives. Sonya’s tragic death at the hands of an officer highlights the disproportionate dangers faced by Black Americans compared to others,” he said.
He added, “Sonya’s family deserves justice. My heart goes out to her children and her entire family as they endure this unimaginable and senseless loss. Jill and I share in the national mourning and extend our prayers to Sonya’s family, loved ones, and community during this tragic time.”
Biden also commended the Springfield State’s Attorney’s office for their prompt actions and emphasized the need for the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act to be passed. “Our commitment to justice is on the line,” he stated.
Deputy Grayson has been charged with first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct in connection with the July 6 incident. If convicted of murder, he faces life imprisonment. Grayson is currently being held at the Menard County Detention Facility, according to the Washington Post.