US police officer charged with murder for shooting Black woman who had phoned 911

A police officer in Illinois has been charged with murder after allegedly shooting a Black woman in the face during a tense confrontation in her home.

Sean Grayson, a former Sangamon County Deputy, is accused of killing 36-year-old Sonya Massey in Springfield , approximately 200 miles south of Chicago.

The incident occurred on July 6 after deputies responded to Ms Massey's 911 call about a potential intruder.

According to prosecutors, Grayson "aggressively yelled" at Ms Massey to put down a pot of water. Despite Massey raising her hands and apologising, Grayson reportedly shot her as she attempted to take cover.

The deputy then allegedly discouraged his partner from providing medical assistance.

First Assistant State's Attorney Mary Rodgers said that the other deputy "still rendered aid and stayed with Ms Massey until medical help arrived", while Grayson "at no time attempted to render aid".

State's Attorney John Milhiser said that a review of body camera footage does not support the use of deadly force in this instance.

Grayson faces charges of first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm and official misconduct.

He has been dismissed from his position, with Sheriff Jack Campbell stating that the deputy did not act as trained or in accordance with our standards".

Ben Crump, the attorney representing Ms Massey's family, described the charges as a "step toward justice" for the victim's loved ones, particularly her children.

The incident has sparked local protests, with approximately 200 people gathering at the Springfield NAACP building to show support for Ms Massey's family.

Authorities have announced that the body camera footage of the shooting will be released to the public on Monday morning.

The State's Attorney's office has indicated that the footage will be unredacted except for "certain images" out of respect for Ms Massey's family.

Ben Crump, the attorney representing Ms Massey's family, described the indictment as "an important milestone in the pursuit of justice".

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker expressed his outrage, saying: "I am enraged that another innocent Black woman had her life taken from her at the hands of a police officer.

“I'm grateful to the Springfield State's Attorney's office for bringing the appropriate charges in this case. May Sonya Massey's memory be a blessing, and may it fuel our work to build a system of justice in this country that truly protects all of its citizens."

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