New York, July 23: US President Joe Biden called the fatal shooting of Sonya Massey, an unarmed Black woman, by an Illinois sheriff's deputy "Unthinkable and Senseless." Massey, 36, was killed by Deputy Sean Grayson after she had called 911 to report a prowler at her residence in Springfield, located approximately 200 miles south of Chicago. The incident, captured on body camera footage recently released, has sparked outrage and raised concerns over police conduct.

On July 6, Sonya Massey, 36, was killed at her home in Springfield, about 200 miles (322 kilometres) south of Chicago, after deputies responded to her 911 call about a possible prowler. According to prosecutors, Deputy Grayson aggressively ordered Massey to drop a pot she was holding, after which she raised her hands and apologised before attempting to take cover. It was then that Grayson shot her in the face. Prosecutors further revealed that Grayson prevented another deputy from accessing his medical kit to assist Massey after she was shot. US President Joe Biden Remembers George Floyd on His Fourth Death Anniversary, Says 'Deserved So Much More'.

Joe Biden's Statement

US President Joe Biden Issues Statement on Sonya Massey Killing

Sharing a post on Facebook, Joe Biden said, “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 Americans – regardless of who we are or where we live – should 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,” he added. “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,” Biden concluded. Joe Biden White House Address: US President to Address Nation From Oval Office on July 24 on Decision To Quit Presidency Race.

Grayson was indicted on charges of first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm and official misconduct. Grayson, who is white, was in custody awaiting a court appearance Thursday. The department has fired Grayson following the shooting of Sonya Massey. (With inputs from agencies)

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 23, 2024 10:57 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).