Former Illinois sheriff’s deputy Sean Grayson has died in prison less than one year after he was convicted in the 2024 fatal shooting of Sonya Massey.
Grayson’s attorney, Daniel Fultz, confirmed that Grayson died at the age of 32 around 12 p.m. on August 23, 2026, following a health battle, according to NBC News.
Us breaks down everything to know about Grayson’s cause of death, health battle and the fatal shooting of Massey that landed him behind bars.
What Was Sean Grayson’s Cause of Death?
Grayson died following a battle with colon cancer. He was diagnosed with stage III colon cancer in 2023. By the time he was sentenced in January 2026, Grayson’s cancer had progressed to stage IV and spread to his liver, lungs and rectum.
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Despite confirming his death, Fultz did not share any additional details about his client’s health.
Grayson was previously denied medical release by the Illinois Prisoner Review Board in July 2026, according to People. At the time, the legal team cited a 2022 law in which individuals with a terminal illness or medical incapacitation could apply for an early release from prison.
Prior to his death, Grayson was receiving medical treatment outside of the Illinois Department of Corrections facility due to security and health concerns, per NPR Illinois.
Sean Grayson Sangamon County Sheriff’s DepartmentWhy Was Sean Grayson in Prison?
Grayson was convicted of second-degree murder for fatally shooting Massey, a Black woman, inside her home in July 2024. Authorities reported to the home after Massey called 911 to report a suspected prowler. Grayson, a white man, shot her three times during the visit, and he later claimed he was afraid she would throw a pot of boiling water at him after she had taken it off of the stove.
Grayson was sentenced in January 2026 to serve 20 years in prison.
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Mark Wykoff, another attorney for Grayson, revealed the former officer’s diagnosis during the sentencing hearing.
Sonya Massey’s Family Reacts to Sean Grayson’s Death
After Grayson’s death was confirmed, Massey’s family reacted to the news in a statement to NPR Illinois.
“Sonya Massey’s death was unjustifiable and she should be alive today.Sean Grayson’s death in custody from cancer does not bring Sonya back,” attorneys Ben Crump and Antonio Romanucci said on behalf of the family. “We wish his family prayers of peace, as we do for all who grieve a loved one. Sonya’s family knows that pain all too well and will grieve her loss the rest of their days.”
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