BOISE, Idaho — Two firefighters were fatally shot and a third was seriously injured during an ambush while they responded to a wildfire on Canfield Mountain near Coeur d’Alene. Kootenai County law enforcement officials confirmed the tragedy unfolded on Sunday afternoon as firefighters rushed to tackle a brush fire that had been intentionally set as a trap.
Firefighters arrived on the scene after reports surfaced about a blaze in a popular hiking area. As they worked to contain the fire, an assailant began shooting at them. Sheriff Bob Norris stated that the firefighters “did not have a chance,” emphasizing the deliberate nature of the attack aimed at luring them into a dangerous situation.
In a chaotic scene, law enforcement swiftly locked down surrounding neighborhoods, fearing for the safety of others who might be on the mountain. Sheriff Norris reported that first responders exchanged gunfire with the shooter, complicating the already perilous conditions as smoke from the fire obscured visibility. Authorities were unsure if additional suspects were involved or if any civilians were caught in the crossfire.
Three firefighters were taken to Kootenai Health, where two were pronounced dead upon arrival. The fatalities included members from the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department and Kootenai County Fire and Rescue. The third firefighter, who underwent surgery, was in critical condition but demonstrating resilience as he fought for his life.
As the investigation progressed, law enforcement worked diligently to locate the shooter, relying on cellphone data to hone in on a signal detected nearby. A tactical response team eventually located a deceased man, later identified as the shooter, Wess Roley. Investigators determined that he acted alone during the assault.
The fire posed further challenges for the investigation, as authorities had to secure the area to recover the suspect’s body before it was engulfed in flames. Sheriff Norris expressed concerns that additional weapons may have been left by the suspect, further complicating the ongoing investigation.
The names of the deceased firefighters and the injured colleague have not yet been made public as family notifications are pending. A solemn procession of fire and law enforcement vehicles escorted the fallen firefighters from the hospital to the medical examiner’s office in Spokane, Washington.
In a show of respect, Idaho Governor Brad Little has ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff in honor of the firefighters. In a statement, he expressed his disbelief over the “heinous act of violence” directed at firefighters, adding, “This is not Idaho,” and acknowledging the profound loss felt throughout the firefighting community and beyond.
The investigation is set to continue as crews remain stationed in the area, and local authorities prepare for what will undoubtedly be an emotional memorial for the heroes lost in this tragic event.