Sean Grayson cause of death update: How did ex-deputy convicted in Sonya Massey killing die?

Former Illinois deputy Sean Grayson has passed away while incarcerated for the 2024 killing of Sonya Massey, according to his attorney, who announced his death on Sunday, August 23. The specific cause of Grayson's death has not been disclosed yet.

Grayson, who was 32 years old, was serving a 20-year sentence for second-degree murder. He sought medical release from prison due to his advanced colon cancer, which had spread to his liver and lungs. His request for compassionate release was denied by the Illinois Prisoner Review Board in July, leading to his continued incarceration.

At the time of his conviction in October 2025, Grayson was 32 years old. He was initially diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer in 2023.