Sonya Massey’s shooting was described as “unthinkable, senseless,” “shocking, horrifying and heartbreaking” by local officials, Illinois lawmakers, and President Biden. The bodycam footage shows Deputy Sean P. Grayson shooting Massey three times inside her home after a dispute over a pot of boiling water. Grayson has pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree murder. The graphic video sparked national outrage and protests, with officials calling for justice and unity. President Biden expressed sympathy for Massey’s family and condemned the incident as an “affront to humanity.” Other lawmakers, including U.S. Rep. Nikki Budzinski and Sen. Doris Turner, also spoke out against the violence. Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul urged calm as the case proceeds through the criminal justice system. The Springfield Mayor and Illinois Secretary of State also condemned the shooting, calling it an “inexcusable” and “disgraceful” act. Civil rights attorney Ben Crump compared the impact of the Massey video to the George Floyd video, saying it will have a lasting effect on future elections. Massey’s funeral took place before the video was released, with many already expressing outrage at her tragic death. The footage has sparked a renewed call for justice, unity, and reform to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
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Officials and Biden respond following release of bodycam footage
