Sean Grayson, the former Illinois sheriff’s deputy convicted in the killing of Sonya Massey, has died in prison at age 32. Grayson was serving a 20-year sentence for second-degree murder after fatally shooting Massey in her home in July 2024. He had served only about six months of his sentence when his death was confirmed on August 23, 2026.

Grayson had been battling advanced colon cancer, which had progressed to his liver and lungs. In May, he requested early medical release under Illinois law, arguing that his worsening condition justified allowing him to spend his remaining time outside prison. However, the Illinois Prisoner Review Board unanimously rejected his request in July, meaning he remained incarcerated while receiving medical treatment.

The case attracted national attention because of the circumstances surrounding Massey’s death. She had called 911 about a possible prowler, and Grayson and another deputy responded to her home. Body-camera footage showed Grayson shooting Massey after she moved a pot of hot water. A jury later convicted him of second-degree murder and he received the maximum sentence.

Now, Grayson has died before completing even a fraction of that sentence. Although reports have linked his death to his cancer, officials have said the exact cause of death has not been formally confirmed. His medical-release request had already been denied, so he remained in custody until his death. The decision has renewed discussion about compassionate release and how Illinois handles terminally ill prisoners.