Survivor’s Guilt

Following the police shootings of Daniel Prude and Walter Wallace Jr. in 2021 —both of which occurred after their families had called 911 for help — I concepted and edited an award-winning 6-part series on people whose lives were destroyed by aggressive use of force during mental health crises.

These stories highlight how ill-equipped police officers are to deal with mental-health crises and the sense of complicity family members often feel after calling the police to intervene.

5 moms whose sons were killed after they called 911 for help now live with the consequences of a failed mental health system that uses cops as a crutch

  • "She said, 'Your family did everything right. Well, if we did everything right, how is our son dead?"

    Taun Hall, mother of slain 23-year-old Miles Hall.

  • "I know in my mind it's not my fault, but it constantly finds its way in these little nooks and crannies of my life. I constantly blame myself."

    Holly Fallon, mother of Eric James Andrews, who was killed when police responded to her 911 call during her son’s mental health crisis.

  • "I wanted other people to know, before you make that call, are you OK with people being killed? If not, then you need to find another solution."

    Debbie, who called 911 after her son became violent. He was killed by officers responding to the scene.

  • "I never thought it could happen to me. I thought it could only happen to the less fortunate people."

    Monteria Robinson, mother of Jamarion Robinson. Jamarion fled when she called 911 and was later shot by police more than 50 times.

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Project: Vibe Check Series