NEENAH, Wis. — A tragic incident in northern Idaho has claimed the life of a dedicated firefighter with ties to this community. Frank Harwood, 42, a battalion chief with the Kootenai County Fire Department, was shot and killed on Sunday while responding to a blaze reportedly set as part of an ambush against fire crews.
Harwood, a 17-year veteran of the department, leaves behind a wife and two children. He was also a proud veteran of the Army National Guard, where he served as a combat engineer. Native to Neenah, he graduated from Neenah High School in 2001, where he was an active member of the football team. Following the tragedy, local officials expressed their condolences and praised Harwood’s commitment to public service.
“Chief Harwood was a leader in our organization,” said Kootenai County Fire and Rescue Chief Christopher Way, reflecting on Harwood’s impact within the department. “He did an amazing job and was well-respected by his peers. This loss is deeply felt by all who knew him, including the members of his shift who witnessed the tragic events unfold.”
Alongside Harwood, Coeur d’Alene Fire Department Battalion Chief John Morrison, 52, also died in the shooting, and another firefighter sustained injuries. The incident began when authorities allege that Wess Roley intentionally ignited a fire with the purpose of ambushing the responding firefighters. Reports indicate that he took a sniper position, targeting the crews as they sought cover behind their trucks during an extended gunfire exchange.
In a tense operation, two helicopters, equipped with snipers, were deployed to the area. Meanwhile, the FBI used cellphone data to ascertain Roley’s location as local authorities ordered residents to shelter in place. Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris referred to the incident as an ambush, stressing the unexpected nature of the attack.
“We do believe that the suspect started the fire intentionally and set the stage for this ambush,” Norris stated during a news conference on Sunday night. “These firefighters didn’t stand a chance.”
Roley’s body was later discovered in the surrounding mountains, alongside a firearm, indicating he died by suicide. Authorities have yet to uncover a motive or any written explanation pertaining to his actions, with Sheriff Norris noting, “We have not been able to find a manifesto.”
The event has left a profound impact on both the firefighting community and the residents of Neenah, who remember Harwood not only as a dedicated leader but as a family man devoted to his community.