Authorities in northern Idaho have now reportedly identified the man behind a deadly ambush that left two firefighters dead and another critically wounded on Sunday.
The shooter, 20-year-old Wess Roley, is believed to have deliberately set a wildfire near Coeur d’Alene to lure emergency personnel to the area before opening fire.
The attack occurred on Canfield Mountain, where first responders had arrived in the early afternoon to contain a fast-moving brush fire.
Shortly after crews began their efforts, gunshots erupted from a concealed vantage point in the dense forest. Two fire officials were killed in the initial volley, while a third was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition.
Officials described the attack as calculated and ruthless. Law enforcement mobilized more than 300 personnel, including federal agents and tactical teams, to scour the area.
Roley was found hours later, dead on a ridge near the scene, armed with a high-powered rifle. Authorities have not confirmed whether his death was self-inflicted or the result of return fire.
The ambush sent shockwaves through the community of Coeur d’Alene, a city nestled near the Idaho–Washington border. The tragedy prompted a temporary shelter-in-place order for nearby residents and the suspension of firefighting operations due to safety concerns.
The identities of the victims have not been publicly released, but officials held a procession to honor their service, escorting the fallen firefighters to Spokane, Washington, where flags were ordered to fly at half-staff.
Governor Brad Little called the act “a heinous assault on our first responders” and pledged state support for the affected families.
While the motive remains unclear, investigators have confirmed that Roley acted alone. There is no evidence at this time linking him to extremist groups or political causes.
Local officials have urged calm and patience as they piece together more details about Roley’s background and state of mind.
The incident has underscored the growing risks faced by emergency personnel, especially in remote areas where fires and violence can intersect.
Firefighters nationwide are calling for renewed attention to responder safety, especially as wildfire seasons become more intense and unpredictable.
As Idaho mourns the loss of two public servants, law enforcement continues its investigation, hoping to better understand what led to this deliberate and devastating act. A public memorial is expected later this week.
[READ MORE: Thom Tillis Announces He Won’t Seek Re-Election]
