James Harding Watson, aged 58, was tragically killed on June 10, 2020, in Paso Robles, California. Watson, who was described as a homeless man, was found dead near the Amtrak train station at 8th and Pine streets. The Paso Robles Police Department reported that Watson was shot at close range by Mason James Lira, a 26-year-old from Monterey. The incident occurred early in the morning, and Watson's body was discovered by local business owners around 7 a.m. Lira's actions did not stop there; he went on a shooting rampage, targeting law enforcement and injuring a responding San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Deputy.
The investigation revealed that Watson was likely one of Lira's first victims before he turned his attention to the Paso Robles police station. The police chief, Ty Lewis, mentioned during a press conference that they believed the homicide was one of the initial acts committed by Lira on that fateful day. Lira was eventually killed in a shootout with law enforcement on June 11, near the Salinas riverbed on the south end of Paso Robles.
Watson's family expressed their grief and frustration over the way his death was initially reported, emphasizing that he was more than just a homeless man. Watson's sister, Bonnie Riggs, highlighted that he had been a part of the community for over 50 years and deserved to be remembered as a good father, brother, and son. Watson had struggled with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, which contributed to his decision to live on the streets to avoid causing harm to his family. Despite his circumstances, his family maintained contact with him and remembered him as a loving and kind-hearted individual.
In the aftermath of the incident, Watson's family set up a GoFundMe account to raise funds for his funeral and to honor his memory. They held a service for him on June 22, just three days before what would have been his 59th birthday. The family also expressed their gratitude to the community and law enforcement for their support during this difficult time. They acknowledged the pain that Lira's family must be experiencing, recognizing that they too were dealing with the consequences of his actions.
