Special Agent James Terry Watson

Special Agent James Terry Watson

United States Department of Justice - Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Government

End of Watch Friday, June 21, 2013

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James Terry Watson

Special Agent Terry Watson was stabbed to death in Bogota, Colombia, while on temporary duty in the country as part of a drug-smuggling investigation.

Agent Watson was in a taxi cab when he was attacked as part of a robbery scheme involving the taxi driver and several other subjects. Two subjects entered the taxi and stunned Agent Watson with a stun gun. As he attempted to defend himself a second subject stabbed him with a knife before fleeing.

A total of six subjects were arrested and charged under United States laws with the murder of an internationally protected person.

All six subjects were arrested and ultimately plead guilty. All were received sentences ranging from 20 years to 36 years in prison.

Agent Watson was a U.S. Army veteran and had served with the Drug Enforcement Administration for 13 years. He had previously served with the United States Marshals Service. He is survived by his wife.

A section of Louisiana Route 183 in Richland Parish was renamed to James "Terry" Watson Memorial Highway in 2016.

Bio

Age 42
Tour 13 years
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Stabbed
Location Overseas
Weapon Edged weapon; Knife
Offender Sentenced to 20+ years

robbery

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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