Authorities have identified the suspect accused of fatally ambushing two firefighters and injuring a third during a wildfire response in northern Idaho. The attack, which officials described as a calculated and deadly trap, unfolded Sunday afternoon on Canfield Mountain in Coeur d’Alene.
The gunman has been identified as 20-year-old Wess Roley, according to law enforcement sources cited by the Associated Press, The New York Times, NBC News, and CNN. He was found dead near the scene with a weapon beside him shortly after the shooting. Investigators are still working to determine whether he died by suicide or was killed during an exchange of gunfire.
Authorities believe Roley intentionally started the fire to lure first responders to the area before opening fire just after 2 p.m. Tactical teams and helicopters were dispatched immediately, and residents nearby were ordered to shelter in place.
“This was a total ambush,” said Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris during a press briefing. “These firefighters did not have a chance.”
A Shocking Turn
According to Roley’s grandfather, Dale Roley, the suspect had previously expressed admiration for firefighters and had even considered becoming one himself. He was reportedly employed in the tree service industry and, according to family members, had dreams of joining the firefighting profession.
“As far as I know, he was actually pursuing it,” Dale told NBC News.
“He loved firefighters. He respected law enforcement. It didn’t make sense that he would do this. Maybe he got rejected or something.”
Authorities have not yet disclosed a motive and say Roley appeared to have acted alone. Using cellphone data, investigators located his body at approximately 3:15 p.m., not far from the original shooting scene.
The Victims
As of Sunday night, the names of the two slain firefighters have not been released, pending family notifications. A third firefighter who was injured remains hospitalized in stable condition, according to CNN.
The tragedy has left both the local firefighting community and law enforcement in shock, especially given the calculated nature of the attack.
The investigation is ongoing, with officials vowing to uncover what led to this horrific act.
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