On June 29, 2025, an ambush in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, left two firefighters dead and one critically injured.
The suspect, identified as 20-year-old Wess Roley, allegedly set a brush fire on Canfield Mountain to lure first responders before opening fire with a high-powered sporting rifle.
The attack, described as a deliberate ambush by Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris, shocked the community and prompted a massive law enforcement response.
Fatalities and Injuries
Two firefighters, one from the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department and one from Kootenai County Fire and Rescue, were killed.
A third firefighter, also from Kootenai County, was critically injured but stable after surgery as of June 29 evening. The victims’ names have not been released pending family notification.
Suspect Found
Roley’s body was discovered Sunday evening on Canfield Mountain near a firearm, believed to be the sniper rifle used in the attack.
Authorities used cellphone data to track his location after an hours-long standoff involving over 300 law enforcement officers from multiple agencies, including the FBI.
The ongoing wildfire complicated evidence collection, forcing officials to quickly recover Roley’s body before flames destroyed it.
It remains unclear whether he died by suicide or was killed during an exchange of gunfire with police.
Who Was Wess Roley?
Wess Roley, a 20-year-old reportedly born in Russia and raised in New York and Florida, allegedly moved to Idaho from Arizona to work at his father’s company.
Unconfirmed reports suggest a history of violent arrests, mental health issues, and a restraining order that barred him from owning firearms.
However, authorities have not officially confirmed these details, and his motive remains unknown as the investigation continues.
Key Details of the Incident
The attack began around 1:30 p.m. on June 29 when firefighters responded to a brush fire on Canfield Mountain, a popular hiking area.
Gunshots were reported 30 minutes later, with Roley allegedly firing from multiple positions, creating initial confusion about the number of shooters.
Sheriff Norris confirmed the fire was intentionally set to trap responders, calling it a “heinous” and “intentional” assault.
The response involved helicopters with heat-seeking technology, though smoke from the wildfire hindered efforts.
No civilians or hikers were reported injured, and a shelter-in-place order was lifted after Roley was found.
Ongoing Investigation
The FBI and local agencies are probing Roley’s background and motives, with expectations of recovering additional weapons from the scene.
The wildfire delayed firefighting efforts, and investigators are working to preserve evidence despite the challenging conditions.
Idaho Governor Brad Little called the attack a “direct assault on our brave firefighters,” urging prayers for the victims’ families. The community remains on edge as authorities seek answers about this calculated tragedy.
This developing story continues to unfold as officials gather more information about the suspect and the events leading to this devastating attack.
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