At approximately 12:50 a.m. on July 6, 2024, the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 call reporting a prowler at a residence in the 2800 block of Hoover Avenue in Springfield. Upon arrival, Deputies conducted a search of the area. At approximately 1:21 a.m., the Deputies reported that shots had been fired, resulting in a female being struck by gunfire from the Deputies. They immediately administered first aid until EMS arrived. The woman was transported to St. John’s Hospital, where she was later pronounced deceased. No deputies were injured during the incident.
The Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office requested the Illinois State Police conduct an independent investigation into the shooting. Sangamon County Coroner Jim Allmon confirmed the death of Sonya Massey, 36, of Springfield. Massey was pronounced deceased at 1:47 a.m. on July 6. An autopsy's preliminary findings show Ms. Massey died from a gunshot wound.
On July 10, the Illinois State Police provided an update to the public, stating: "The Illinois State Police (ISP) continues its investigation into an officer-involved shooting at the request of the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office. ISP is collaborating closely with the Sangamon County State’s Attorney’s Office to conduct a timely, comprehensive, and transparent investigation. In order to protect the integrity of the legal process and the right to a fair trial in the event charges are filed, the body-worn camera video and additional information related to the incident are not being released at this time. When appropriate, additional information, including the video, will be shared with Sonya Massey's family before being released further."
Sheriff Jack Campbell has asked the public for patience, saying: "At this point, it is imperative that SCSO protect the integrity of the investigation by waiting for the determination from ISP. My normal procedure is to respond to inquiries and to give public statements regarding major events. As an elected official, that is always my instinct. In this case, it would not be appropriate. I’m asking for the public and the media to be patient as we seek the facts surrounding this tragic event."