Actions of police officers are heavily scrutinized during the investigation of an officer-involved shooting, and police officers must be aware of the scrutiny they will also face in the courts, the media, and public opinion. Even though the time immediately following a deadly threat encounter is a very delicate one for the involved officer, some police departments continue to conduct their investigations in ways that are virtually guaranteed to cause unnecessary stress. In general, police departments do a poor job of mentally preparing officers for the investigation that follows a shooting incident. Police officers do not know what to expect during the investigation and do not understand why each step is taken. Fear of the unknown takes over, and each new unexpected twist or turn elevates the police officer's "stress meter." Police departments need to teach their officers the procedures involved in post-shooting investigations so officers will know what to expect. In addition, police departments should be aware of officer sensitivities, shield the officer from onlookers, replace the officer's firearm, provide counseling, and keep the officer informed. Photographs