
Ex-deputy who killed Sonya Massey dies in prison
Sean Grayson, a former Sangamon County sheriff's deputy convicted of murdering Sonya Massey in 2024, died in prison around noon on Aug. 23, 2026.
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Sean Grayson, a former Sangamon County sheriff's deputy convicted of murdering Sonya Massey in 2024, died in prison around noon on Aug. 23, 2026.

Sean Grayson, a former Sangamon County sheriff’s deputy convicted of fatally shooting Sonya Massey in 2024 after her 911 call, died Sunday while serving a 20-year sentence for second-degree murder; he had been diagnosed with Stage 3 colon cancer in 2023, though it’s unclear if that contributed to his death, and Massey’s killing had sparked protests and led to a 2025 conviction.

An 18-year-old individual died in a three-vehicle crash in Springfield, Illinois. The crash occurred on North Walnut Road, and the deceased was pronounced dead at the scene. Two others were injured and taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The Sangamon County Sheriff's Office is investigating the incident.

A tornado touched down in Sangamon County, causing damage to dozens of homes and businesses. No injuries were reported, but power lines were knocked down, making it difficult for first responders to reach affected areas. The storm also caused gas leaks, downed power lines, and loose horses. The National Weather Service reported that the tornado was part of a strong line of storms that moved through the Midwest on Friday. A cold front is expected to follow the storm, bringing colder temperatures and high wind gusts.