COEUR D’ALENE, ID — Community Devastated After Ambush on First Responders Leaves Two Firefighters Dead, One Critically Injured; 20-Year-Old Wess Roley Identified as Suspect
In a tragic and deeply unsettling act of violence, 20-year-old Wess Roley has been identified as the gunman who ambushed first responders on Canfield Mountain near Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, leaving two firefighters dead and a third critically injured. Authorities are describing the incident as a “calculated, premeditated attack” that has shaken the region and left the tight-knit firefighting and emergency response community mourning an unimaginable loss.
A Deadly Ambush During a Routine Call
On the afternoon of Saturday, June 28, 2025, crews from local fire and emergency services were dispatched to respond to what appeared to be a small brush fire in the rugged terrain of Canfield Mountain. The call seemed routine — a minor blaze during the summer fire season — until the situation took a horrifying turn.
According to the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office, as firefighters approached the scene to assess and contain the fire, they came under sudden and deliberate gunfire from a concealed position nearby. The ambush was swift and violent, with multiple rounds fired before any responders had time to react.
Two firefighters were pronounced dead at the scene. A third was airlifted in critical condition to a Spokane-area trauma center, where they are currently receiving intensive care.
Suspect Identified: Wess Roley
Following an immediate manhunt and coordinated law enforcement response, authorities identified Wess Roley, 20, of Coeur d’Alene, as the primary suspect. Law enforcement officials believe Roley intentionally set the brush fire to lure first responders into the area before carrying out his attack.
Roley was apprehended hours later after being spotted in a wooded area east of the mountain, carrying a firearm and additional ammunition. He was taken into custody without incident and is currently being held at the Kootenai County Jail. Authorities have charged him with two counts of first-degree murder, attempted murder, and assault on emergency personnel.
Investigators have yet to reveal a clear motive, but officials say Roley had no known connection to the victims. They are now examining his social media presence, personal writings, and mental health history to determine what may have led to such a cold and targeted act.
Mourning the Fallen
Though names of the deceased have not yet been officially released pending family notifications, both were described by fire officials as veteran firefighters with years of dedicated service to the community.
“This is the darkest day in our department’s history,” said Coeur d’Alene Fire Chief Brian Curtis in a somber press conference. “We send our people into danger to fight fires, to save lives — not to be targeted and executed while trying to do their jobs. Our hearts are broken.”
Across northern Idaho and beyond, firehouses are flying flags at half-staff, and stations have draped their engines in black mourning bands in tribute to the fallen. Support is pouring in from departments across the region, many of which have sent personnel to provide emotional support and operational relief during this time of crisis.
A Wounded Community and a Call for Unity
The community of Coeur d’Alene, known for its picturesque mountain landscapes and small-town resilience, is now grappling with trauma and disbelief. Candlelight vigils are being planned at city parks and near fire stations, as residents look for ways to process the grief and support those left behind.
Local officials, including Mayor Jim Hammond, urged unity and compassion:
“This is a time for us to come together, to support our first responders, and to honor those who gave their lives in service to others. We will not allow this act of hatred to define us.”
Mental health counselors and chaplains have been dispatched to assist affected families, firefighters, dispatchers, and emergency medical staff who are struggling with the emotional weight of the tragedy.
Investigation Ongoing
The Idaho State Police, FBI, and ATF are assisting local authorities in conducting a thorough investigation. They are now combing through evidence from the crime scene, the suspect’s residence, and digital records to piece together the sequence of events and any underlying motivations.
Officials are urging anyone with information related to Wess Roley or his activities prior to the shooting to come forward. “Even the smallest detail may be critical to this investigation,” said Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris.
Honoring the Heroes
Plans for a public memorial to honor the fallen firefighters are underway. Details will be announced by the city of Coeur d’Alene and the fire department in the coming days. A GoFundMe campaign has also been launched to support the families of the victims and the firefighter currently fighting for their life in the hospital.
The loss is staggering, but the outpouring of love, prayers, and support from across the state shows that the spirit of service and sacrifice lives on.
In memory of the fallen heroes, may their dedication, courage, and selflessness be forever remembered. Their lives were taken in an act of senseless violence, but their legacy of service will never be extinguished.
Rest in peace. We will carry the torch from here.
