As police professionals know, one phone call can change everything. At 9:25 p.m. on June 17, 2015, Chief Mullen received the call no police chief ever wants to get—a call that would change his life. His deputy chief informed Chief Mullen that there had been a shooting at a local African American church, a place known for its significant symbolism and historical importance across the U.S. East Coast. There were multiple victims. This moment would set the stage for what would become a lesson in the power of connections, partnerships, and the true essence of public safety leadership in times of crisis.

When that call came, Chief Mullen had been a police officer for 30 years, including 25 years in formal leadership positions and 9 as the chief of police in Charleston, South Carolina. During those three decades, he had faced many crises, including mass fatality homicides, vehicle crashes, protests and riots, hurricanes, ice storms, and a catastrophic fire.

When he left his home that night, Chief Mullen knew this would be a defining moment for him, the Charleston Police Department, their partners, and the community. It would change everyone involved. In the moments after the call, Chief Mullen also realized that he was joining a group of chiefs of police who had led or would lead their organizations and communities through a hate-inspired mass violence incident (MVI) and its far-reaching impact. At that moment, he could not have imagined just how deeply this singular event would affect him personally and all those involved in the response.

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