Washington Senate approves memorial for trooper killed by burglary suspect
Feb 25, 2025, 4:30 PM
The Washington State Senate approved a memorial for fallen Washington State Patrol Trooper Charles Frank Noble Jr. (Photos courtesy of WSP)
(Photos courtesy of WSP)
The Washington State Senate approved a memorial for fallen Washington State Patrol (WSP) Trooper Charles Frank Noble Jr., who was killed while on duty in Yakima County, announced Senate Republicans via a news release Tuesday.
Senate Joint Memorial 8003 is a bipartisan initiative led by Senator Nikki Torres to request the Washington State Transportation Commission designate the overpass over Interstate 82 at the Yakima Valley Highway junction, at milepost 54, as the “Washington State Patrol Trooper Charles Frank Noble Jr. Memorial Overpass,” the news release stated.
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Washington State Patrol trooper shot by robbery suspect in 1972
Noble was only 42 years old when he was shot in Zillah while coming across a suspect during a traffic stop on Highway 12 on Feb. 5, 1972, WSP reported via a post on its website.
WSP stated Noble took furloughed inmate and burglary suspect Robert Lee Clark into the back of his patrol vehicle and was met by gunfire. Noble was shot three times and died from his injuries. Clark was then taken into custody for murder.
The agency noted Noble’s death sparked criticism of the state’s furlough program.
Senate Republicans wrote Noble was a “dedicated public servant” and a Yakima County resident since 1969. He started with the Washington State Patrol in 1957 as a driver’s license examiner. He was commissioned as a trooper in 1958, where he served for 14 years after graduating from the 27th Trooper Basic Training Class.
“Trooper Charles Frank Noble Jr. exemplified the highest standards of bravery and dedication in his service to our community and country,” Torres said via the news release. “Designating this overpass in his honor ensures that his sacrifice and commitment to public safety are permanently remembered.”
Senate Joint Memorial 8003 now moves to the Washington State House of Representatives for consideration.
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