We are covering the trial of Sean Grayson for the murder of Sonya Massey in July 2024. Day three will include opening statements from the Defense and the State.

The atmosphere was somber around the Peoria County Courthouse as opening arguments began in the trial of former Sangamon County sheriff’s deputy Sean Grayson.

A large crowd of people gathered outside the Peoria County Courthouse on Monday to demand justice for Sonya Massey, who was shot and killed by Sean Grayson, and speeches are expected to begin at 1 p.m.

Sean Grayson is facing murder charges. This comes after the Springfield mother of two, Sonya Massey, was shot inside her home last year in July, after calling 911 to report a prowler near her home. Grayson's defense claimed the former deputy shot Massey in self-defense, because he feared she would throw a pot of boiling water on him.

Those attending the trial, which is expected to last a week and a half, will be greeted by protests around the courthouse in downtown Peoria, where the trial was moved after Grayson's attorneys, Daniel Fultz and Mark Wykoff, were granted a motion.