Idaho Inferno Firefighters Ambushed in Cold Blood

Tragedy in Coeur d'Alene: Suspect Identified in Ambush Killing of Two Idaho Firefighters at Wildfire

In a shocking turn of events, the tranquility of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, has been shattered by the senseless killing of two firefighters. The first responders were ambushed by a gunman while bravely tackling a brush fire on Sunday, leaving the community in mourning and law enforcement scrambling to bring the perpetrator to justice. Here's what we know so far:

Suspect Identified as Wess Roley

After an intense, hours-long multi-agency manhunt, law enforcement officials have identified the suspected shooter as Wess Roley. Roley was found dead on Canfield Mountain, near a firearm, according to the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office.

The Horrifying Ambush

The incident unfolded after a report of a small brush fire was received at 1:21 p.m. Shortly after, at approximately 2:00 p.m., firefighters reported they were under fire. The ambush tragically resulted in:

• Two fatalities: One firefighter from the Coeur d'Alene Fire Department and another from the Kootenai County Fire Department.
• One injured: A third firefighter was shot and transported to Kootenai Health Hospital for treatment.

Sheriff Robert Norris described the attack as "a total ambush," emphasizing that the firefighters "did not have a chance."

The Manhunt and Investigation

The brazen attack triggered a massive response, with approximately 300 law enforcement officers converging on the scene. Amidst the chaos, gunfire was exchanged between authorities and the suspect. The White House and FBI Director Kash Patel offered their support and assistance.

Key points from the investigation:

• At 6:30 p.m., authorities were instructed to neutralize the suspect.
• The suspect was confirmed dead at 7:40 p.m.
• Investigators believe Roley started the brush fire to lure first responders into an ambush.
• Based on the fire's trajectory and the weapon found, officials currently believe there was only one shooter.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is focusing on tracing the weapon used in the attack. The FBI also assisted authorities in Kootenai County.

Community Response and Aftermath

The shelter-in-place order for Canfield Mountain Trailhead and the surrounding area has been lifted. However, residents are advised to stay informed about updates regarding the ongoing fire.

Idaho Governor Brad Little condemned the attack as a "heinous direct assault on our brave firefighters" and urged all Idahoans to pray for the victims and their families.

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has also been briefed on the tragic shooting.

This devastating event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by first responders every day. As the investigation continues, our thoughts are with the families, friends, and colleagues of the fallen and injured firefighters, and the entire Coeur d'Alene community as they grapple with this profound loss.

Tags: Idaho Firefighters, Wildfire Ambush, Coeur d'Alene, Gunman Identified, Wess Roley, Firefighter Death, Brush Fire, Manhunt, Firefighters Killed, Idaho Shooting

Source: https://abcnews.go.com/US/firefighters-ambushed-gunman-responding-brush-fire-coeur-dalene/story?id=123325507