On July 6, 2024, Sonya Massey was gunned down by deputy Sean Grayson in her Springfield, Illinois, home after calling 911 to report a trespasser. “Don’t hurt me,” were the first words said by Massey to the officers who arrived in response to her call. An autopsy report released by the Sangamon County coroner’s office later ruled Sonya’s death a homicide due to a gunshot wound to her head.
The Austin Justice Coalition (AJC), along with organizations across the country, joined in a solemn observance of the National Day of Mourning for Sonya Massey on July 28, 2024.
The National Day of Mourning took place at the Cherrywood Center in Austin at 3:00pm. Community members and advocates came together in grief and solidarity, honoring the life of Sonya Massey and standing against the systemic injustices that led to her untimely death.
“The loss of Sonya Massey is a profound tragedy that underscores the urgent need for alternative approaches to public safety,” said Chas Moore, Founder of the Austin Justice Coalition. “We join her family, friends, and communities around the country in mourning her senseless death and reaffirm our commitment to developing community-led, non-violent responses that truly protect and serve everyone.”
Sonya had long been affected by mental illness and was recently treated before this tragedy occurred. The public constantly asks that law enforcement be trained in how to properly respond to those who are mentally unstable so that incidents like these don’t occur.
The National Day of Mourning event held by the AJC featured speeches from community leaders, moments of silence, and opportunities for attendees to express their grief and support.
“In these moments of sorrow, we are reminded of the profound impact of collective action and the importance of standing together in the face of injustice. As we mourn Sonya Massey, we also commit to continuing our efforts to create a more equitable and just society for all.”-Austin Justice Coalition
Learn more about this case here. To support the efforts of the Austin Justice Coalition, visit their website.