Trooper James E. Saunders

Trooper James E. Saunders

Washington State Patrol, Washington

End of Watch Thursday, October 7, 1999

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James E. Saunders

Trooper James Saunders was shot and killed while making a traffic stop near the intersection of South Road 28 & W Lewis Street in Pasco, Washington.

He had radioed into dispatchers with a description of the pickup truck and the license plate. Within one minute of his initial call, a citizen used Trooper Saunders' radio to notify dispatchers that he had been shot. He was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

The suspect was arrested the following day after officers conducted surveillance on several different locations, looking for the owner of the truck. The man was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life without parole.

Trooper Saunders had served with the Washington State Patrol for nine years. He was survived by his expectant wife and 2-year-old daughter.

Bio

  • Age 31
  • Tour 9 years
  • Badge 1053

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Handgun
  • Offender Sentenced to life

traffic stop

Most Recent Reflection

View all 86 Reflections

Trooper Saunders, i'm sorry for what happened to you over 20 years ago, as your death was not neccessary, and you didn't deserve it. The person that killed you was nothing short of a coward, as he could've went home that day with either a warning or a ticket, but instead chose to prove how much of a worthless human being he truly is. Thankfully however, he was sentenced to life, meaning that he won't ever hurt anyone else again, and that some sense of justice has been brought upon your death. But nonetheless, karma is gonna take its time with him, as his time of judgement will come. However, as for your service, it does go to show that you made an impact on the state of washington, as a bystander who saw you get wounded tried their best to help, which means that you impacted alot of people during your time alive, meaning that there is some people who encountered you were grateful enough to see what type of person you were. But all in all though, you truly were a man of dedication and service, as you spent nearly 10 years with the WSP, which goes to show that you really did care about the ones around you, as you did what you were trained to do in serving and helping your community along with the state by making it a safer and better place. Also, your kids have grown up to learn about their father's legacy, and they will most likely carry your legacy by continuing to do their best in life. Overall, your service to the state of washington is honorably appreciated, and that you did your job the best way you knew how, and you made a successful impact on those around you. But as of now, may you rest in peace knowing your service as a trooper and individual is appreciated, and that the citizens of washington are honored to have had somebody as courageous and brave as you protecting and serving the state. Rest Well Mr. Saunders

Morgan, a civilian supporter of the blue line

May 7, 2025

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