Dave Cullen is an American journalist and author best known for his in-depth coverage of mass shootings in the United States. His most acclaimed works include Columbine, a detailed account of the 1999 Columbine High School massacre, and Parkland: Birth of a Movement, which focuses on the aftermath of the 2018 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School and the rise of the March for Our Lives movement. Both books have received considerable praise, with Columbine being recognized as a definitive narrative on the subject and making it to the New York Times bestseller list as well as winning several awards, including the Edgar and Goodreads Choice Award for best nonfiction of the year. Parkland has been lauded for its hopeful outlook and intimate portrayal of the students involved in galvanizing a national conversation on gun control.

Cullen's work extends beyond bookshelves as he has contributed to major publications like the New York Times, Vanity Fair, and BuzzFeed, among others. His reporting provides not only a meticulous examination of these tragic events but also conveys a deep sense of empathy and understanding towards the victims and communities affected. Throughout his career, Cullen has been a vocal advocate for change, using his platform to spotlight the human stories behind the headlines and push for a meaningful dialogue on gun violence in America.

His dedication to this difficult subject matter has not come without personal cost. He has experienced secondary PTSD as a result of his immersive reporting style, highlighting the emotional toll such work can take on journalists. Despite these challenges, Cullen remains committed to telling these stories, driven by a belief in the power of journalism to effect change and inspire hope.