Officer James Harry McKnight, West Sacramento Police Department, California

Officer James Harry McKnight

West Sacramento Police Department, California

End of Watch Saturday, June 16, 1990

Add to My Heroes

James Harry McKnight

Officer James McKnight was shot in the head and killed while serving a warrant at a home in the 1100 block of Quincy Street in Madison along with other members of the Northern California Task Force on Narcotics.

The subject was also shot and killed.

Officer McKnight had served in law enforcement for 15 years. Prior to joining the West Sacramento Police Department he had served with the Woodland Police Department, Yolo County Sheriff's Office, and the Hilo, Hawaii, Police Department. He is survived by his son and father.

Bio

Age 39
Tour 15 years
Badge 103

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Incident Date Friday, June 15, 1990
Weapon Gun; Unknown type
Offender Not available

narcotics, warrant service

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God of Justice, I am grateful for the lives and sacrifices of all America’s Peace Officers. They died serving us. Help us never forget. Help us celebrate their lives and honor their sacrifices. Be with the families of these fallen peace officers. Comfort them and give them Your strength and peace. Guide us as we seek to take care of the families of these fallen heroes. May we care for them with integrity. In commemorating the deaths of these fallen heroes, help us also to remember that death is not the end. Death does not have the final say, but is simply the transition from this earthly life to the heavenly life yet to come. This assurance was guaranteed to all believers upon the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. We look forward to that life to come with joy and anticipation. Thank You, Lord God, for hearing this prayer. In the mighty and holy name of Christ Jesus, Your dear Son, I pray. Amen.

Holy Scripture References:

“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 your staff, they comfort me.” [Psalm 23:4 ESV]

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” [John 3:16 ESV]

Chaplain Steven R. Closs, DDiv, MSBS, NCCA, NACM
Ordained 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 16, 2025