Defense releases witness list in Sean Grayson Murder Trial

PEORIA, Ill. (WAND) - Day six of the Sean Grayson murder trial began Monday morning with a major development — the state resting its case and the defense calling Grayson himself to the stand.

Grayson, a former Sangamon County Sheriff’s Deputy, is charged with first-degree murder in the police shooting death of 36-year-old Sonya Massey inside her home in July 2024. The trial, originally set in Springfield, was moved to Peoria due to extensive media coverage.

Prosecutors say Grayson shot Massey after she called 911 to report a prowler. The encounter — and the moments leading up to the shooting — were captured on police body camera video that has now been shown multiple times in court.

On Monday, the court also released the full list of witnesses the defense plans to call to the stand. Their testimony is expected to provide key insight into the evidence presented and the events surrounding the shooting.

The defense witness list includes:

Glyn Corbitt, Macon, GA
Kevin Davis, New Franklin, OH
Deputy Jason Eccleston, Sangamon County Sheriff’s Department, Springfield, IL
Master Sergeant Nicholas Korte, Illinois State Police, Springfield, IL
Captain Audie Prange, Sangamon County Sheriff’s Department, Springfield, IL

Massey, an unarmed Black woman, was killed inside her Sangamon County home after calling for help. Her death sparked protests and renewed calls for justice, leading to policy changes within the Sheriff’s Department and other county offices.

The trial will continue this week as the defense presents its case, with closing statements expected in the coming days.

Family of Sonya Massey speaks out as Week 1 of the Sean Grayson Murder Trial ends

Witness list revealed in Sean Grayson Murder Trial