Police Officer James Melvin Forbes, Seattle Police Department, Washington

Police Officer James Melvin Forbes

Seattle Police Department, Washington

End of Watch Friday, June 21, 1974

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James Melvin Forbes

Officer Forbes and Officer James St. DeLore were killed when their Bell 47 police helicopter collided in mid-air with a Cessna 150.

The officers were responding to a weapon call in the south end of the city when the two aircraft collided near 37th Avenue South and South Benefit Street. The Cessna was approaching Boeing Field to land with the aircraft collided. Both occupants of the plane were also killed.

Officer Forbes had served with the Seattle Police Department for 15 years. He was survived by his wife, daughter, and two sons.

Bio

Age 32
Tour 15 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Aircraft accident

helicopter crash, weapons violation

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Heavenly Father, You are Compassionate and Merciful. None of America’s Peace Officers leave home without the fear of not returning at the end of their watch. It is a fear that is lived daily. Unfortunately, the worst does sometimes come to pass, and lives are left shattered. Lord God, bless and keep the hearts and souls of those who have lost loved ones in the line of duty. Wipe away the tears from their eyes. Soothe their pain and bind up their emotional wounds through the wounds of Your beloved Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. In His name, and by His authority, I pray. Amen.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons [children] of God.” [Matthew 5:9 ESV]

“And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here am I! Send me.” [Isaiah 6:8 ESV]

"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and staff, they comfort me." [Psalm 23:4 ESV]

"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted." [Matthew 5:4 ESV]

Chaplain Steven R. Closs, DDiv, MSBS, NCCA, NACM
Ordained Independent NACM Minister
The Badge 183 Peacemakers Prayer Ministry
Member: Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers - USA

Captain Steven R. Closs (Retired)
Nashua NH Police Department (1974-1998)

June 21, 2025