NOTE: VIDEO AT THE END OF ARTICLE
Firefighters Ambushed in Idaho Sniper Attack
Two firefighters lost their lives, and a third remains hospitalized after a sniper ambushed first responders during a wildfire near Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Authorities believe the suspect intentionally set the fire to lure in emergency crews before launching a deadly attack.
Attack Unfolds on Canfield Mountain
At approximately 2 p.m. on Sunday, fire crews from Coeur d’Alene and Kootenai County responded to a small brush fire on Canfield Mountain. However, as they began their work, gunfire erupted from a concealed location in the forest. Sheriff Bob Norris of Kootenai County described the incident as “a total ambush,” emphasizing that the firefighters had no time to react.
As a result, two firefighters—one from Coeur d’Alene and one from Kootenai County Fire and Rescue—died at the scene. A third firefighter suffered critical injuries. Subsequently, medics rushed him to Kootenai Health, where he underwent emergency surgery and remains in stable condition.
Massive Law Enforcement Response
Immediately following the shooting, law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and state tactical teams, swarmed the area. Two helicopters equipped with snipers flew overhead to support ground teams. After a tense five-hour standoff, SWAT officers discovered the shooter’s body near a weapon in the woods. Officials confirmed he acted alone.
Authorities later identified the shooter as 20-year-old Wess Val Roley. He had previously shown interest in firefighting but also posted disturbing content online. For instance, in one video, he claimed involvement in black-market organ trafficking. Given this, investigators now believe he set the fire as a trap for first responders.
Fire Grows as Response Continues
Meanwhile, the wildfire expanded to nearly 20 acres. Sheriff Norris stated that responders couldn’t contain the fire immediately due to the risk of additional violence. “It’s going to keep burning,” he said during the operation. “We can’t safely put resources on it right now.”
Consequently, fire suppression efforts were delayed, and nearby areas faced increased risk as the flames spread.
Governor and Public Respond
Later that evening, Idaho Governor Brad Little condemned the attack in a public statement. He called it a “heinous act of violence” and ordered state flags lowered to half-staff. “Teresa and I are heartbroken,” he added, urging Idahoans to support the victims’ families.
In addition, the community began organizing support efforts for the families of the fallen firefighters.
Ongoing Investigation
At this stage, investigators are reviewing the shooter’s digital history, background, and mental health status. The motive remains unclear, but officials confirmed the fire and ambush were premeditated. To that end, the FBI continues to support the case and is working closely with local authorities.
Ultimately, the tragedy has reignited national conversations about violence targeting first responders and the challenges they face on and off the field.
