Murder defendant's testimony: 'I was afraid for my life'
SPRINGFIELD, IL -- Edward L. Massey admitted to shooting ReKeea T. Jackson-Mason in the 1900 block of Holly Drive early in the morning of July 19, 2025, but testified that she came at him with a weapon and that "I was afraid for my life." That testimony came on the second day of Massey's second-degree murder bench trial before Presiding Circuit Court Judge John M. "Mo" Madonia at the Sangamon County Complex Nov. 10. Also testifying was Saundra Hayes, Massey's mother, with whom he lived. More: Husband of woman fatally shot in 2025 wanted to 'deescalate' situation Taking the stand for the prosecution was Springfield Police Det. John Larson, the chief investigator on the case. With Massey's testimony, the defense rested. Closing arguments are expected to take place Thursday with court out of session for Veterans Day. Jackson-Mason, 36 and a mother to three children, died of a single gun shot wound to the left side of her chest. Massey, 37, also has been charged with possession of a weapon by a felon. Massey is not related to the family of Sonya Massey , the 36-year-old woman who was fatally shot in her home by Sean Grayson in 2024. On
