Who should a law enforcement officer report an "officer-involved shooting" to immediately?

In the context of law enforcement protocols, the immediate reporting of an "officer-involved shooting" is a critical part of maintaining accountability and ensuring appropriate next steps are taken. Reporting to a supervisor is essential because they are responsible for overseeing the incident's handling and ensuring that proper procedures are followed. Supervisors have the authority to mobilize appropriate resources, assign personnel, initiate internal investigations, and secure the scene of the incident.

The timely communication of such incidents up the chain of command is vital for maintaining transparency within the agency, assessing the situation accurately, and ensuring compliance with legal and departmental policies. Supervisors are typically trained to handle these high-stakes situations effectively, providing guidance and support to officers involved and managing public relations aspects that may arise later.

In contrast, notifying the nearest kin of the victim or the police chief is not prioritized immediately in the context of the officer's obligation. The media representative is also not involved in the initial response; their role comes later in the narrative when the department is ready to provide public disclosures. Prioritizing a supervisor ensures that the incident is managed correctly right from the start.