Tragedy in the United States: a black woman killed in her home by a white police officer.
In the United States, a video has revealed a tragedy involving law enforcement in Illinois. Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old black woman, was shot dead in early July by a white police officer she had called to report a possible home invasion. Footage from the officer’s body camera shows that Ms. Massey was holding a pot of boiling water at the time.
Attorney Ben Crump, known for his defense of victims of police brutality, represents Sonya Massey’s family. At a press conference on July 23, he called the killing “senseless” and accused police of initially trying to minimize their responsibility by blaming the neighborhood.
According to images published by Illinois State PoliceSonya Massey was unarmed when the incident occurred on July 6 in Springfield. After she called police about a possible break-in, two officers responded. They asked her to turn off a pot of boiling water to prevent a fire. When Massey reached for the pot, one of the officers stepped back, jokingly saying he wanted to avoid the boiling water. Massey responded calmly, saying, “Oh, I’m reprimanding you in the name of Jesus.” The officer then threatened to shoot. Massey, who was crouching behind a counter, still holding the pot, was shot after the officers yelled, “Drop the fucking pot.”
Sean Grayson, the officer involved, has been charged with voluntary manslaughter. Local Sheriff Jack Campbell called the shooting “unjustifiable,” saying the officer had other options. President Joe Biden responded by saying Sonya Massey “should still be alive” and that all Americans should be able to call for help without fearing for their lives. Vice President Kamala Harris is scheduled to meet with the victim’s family. Authorities have promised a “fair and transparent” investigation.
Read also:
BNC File: Based on the presumption of innocence, the EDE party supports Smith Augustin
