Administration of Joseph R. Biden, Jr., 2024

July 22, 2024

Sonya Massey, a beloved mother, friend, daughter, and young Black woman, should be alive today. Sonya called the police because she was concerned about a potential intruder. When we call for help, all of us as Americansâregardless of who we are or where we liveâshould be able to do so without fearing for our lives. Sonya's death at the hands of a responding officer reminds us that all too often Black Americans face fears for their safety in ways many of the rest of us do not.

Sonya's family deserves justice. I am heartbroken for her children and her entire family as they face this unthinkable and senseless loss. Jill and I mourn with the rest of the country and our prayers are with Sonya's family, loved ones, and community during this devastating time.

I commend the swift actions that were taken by the Springfield State's Attorney's office.

While we wait for the case to be prosecuted, let us pray to comfort the grieving. Congress must pass the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act now. Our fundamental commitment to justice is at stake.

NOTE: The statement referred to former Sangamon County, IL, Police Deputy Sean P. Grayson, who was charged on July 18 with first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and official misconduct in the shooting of Ms. Massey in Springfield, IL, on July 6; and Malachi and Jeannette, children of Ms. Massey.

Categories: Statements by the President : Sonya Massey, death.

Names: Biden, Jill T.; Grayson, Sean P.; Massey, Jeannette; Massey, Malachi H.; Massey, Sonya. Subjects: Deaths, Sonya Massey; Policing best practices, improvement efforts.

DCPD Number: DCPD202400634.