A deadly ambush on Sunday claimed the lives of two firefighters responding to a wildfire on Canfield Mountain, near Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Authorities believe the fire was deliberately set to lure first responders into a sniper-style attack.
At around 1:21 p.m., emergency crews were dispatched to a small brush fire. Roughly 40 minutes later, as firefighters began responding, gunfire erupted. Kootenai County Sheriff Robert Norris confirmed the incident was “a total ambush,” saying the victims “did not have a chance.”
Authorities have not yet publicly released the names of the two firefighters from the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department and Kootenai County Fire and Rescue who were killed. The surviving firefighter’s identity has also not been made public. Officials have indicated that no names will be released at this time to respect the families’ privacy as the investigation continues.
How the Attack Unfolded and Who Was Behind It
The suspect, identified as 20-year-old Wess Roley, is believed to have intentionally set the fire as a trap. Using cellphone tracking, law enforcement launched a tactical search. Roley’s body was discovered around 7:40 p.m. near the fire zone, armed and deceased. It remains unclear whether he died by suicide or in an exchange with law enforcement.
Around 300 personnel were deployed to the scene, including SWAT teams, FBI agents, and helicopters with sharpshooters. A shelter-in-place was ordered for nearby residents during the operation. Federal agencies including the FBI and ATF are actively involved in the investigation and area security.
Authorities confirmed Roley acted alone and there is no continuing threat to the public. However, the motive remains under investigation.
Community Mourns, Firefighting Efforts Continue
Idaho Governor Brad Little condemned the attack, calling it “a heinous direct assault on our brave firefighters,” and ordered flags flown at half-staff. The International Association of Fire Fighters also issued a statement mourning “two of our brothers” and offering support to their families and injured colleagues.
Despite the loss, firefighting crews resumed suppression efforts later Sunday night. The blaze, which burned 20–26 acres, continues to pose challenges due to dense brush and limited visibility.
This incident marks a chilling shift in the risks faced by first responders. Officials are now reviewing emergency protocols to address threats posed by deliberate ambushes during fire responses. As the investigation progresses, the fallen firefighters are being remembered for their service and sacrifice.