Gunman Lures Firefighters to Deadly Idaho Ambush

Written by Elizabeth Harper.

On June 29, 2025, a tragic incident unfolded in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, where two firefighters lost their lives and another was critically injured in a meticulously planned ambush. The attack, which occurred on Canfield Mountain, has left the community grappling with grief and questions about the safety of first responders. This calculated act, involving a deliberately set wildfire to lure firefighters, underscores the unpredictable dangers faced by those who serve the public. The following account details the events, the response, and the ongoing implications of this devastating tragedy.

Incident on Canfield Mountain

At approximately 1:21 p.m. on Sunday, June 29, 2025, emergency services in Kootenai County received a report of a brush fire on Canfield Mountain, a popular recreational area known for its hiking and biking trails. Firefighters from the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department and Kootenai County Fire and Rescue promptly responded to contain the blaze. However, within 40 minutes, the situation escalated dramatically as gunfire erupted, targeting the arriving firefighters. Authorities later confirmed that the fire, named the Nettleton Gulch Fire, was intentionally set to draw first responders into a deadly trap.

The ambush was described as a deliberate act by Kootenai County Sheriff Robert Norris, who noted that the firefighters had little chance to react. The suspect, armed with a high-powered rifle, opened fire almost immediately upon the firefighters’ arrival, creating a chaotic and life-threatening environment. This calculated strategy not only endangered the responders but also complicated efforts to manage the wildfire, which grew to an estimated 26 acres by Monday morning, fueled by the region’s steep terrain and dense vegetation.

Chaos and Response in the Initial Hours

The initial hours following the attack were marked by confusion and intense danger. As gunfire rang out, firefighters radioed for help, with one reporting they were hiding behind a firefighting rig while another suggested the fire was intentionally set. Over 300 law enforcement officers from local, state, and federal agencies, including the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, converged on the scene. The responders faced active sniper fire, with uncertainty about the number of shooters or potential civilian casualties, as hikers and recreationists were still on the mountain during the incident.

Kootenai Health, the local hospital, received three victims. Two firefighters—one from the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department and one from Kootenai County Fire and Rescue—were pronounced dead on arrival. A third firefighter, also from Coeur d’Alene, sustained life-threatening injuries but was reported stable after surgery. The community’s response was swift, with a procession of emergency vehicles escorting the fallen firefighters’ bodies to Spokane, Washington, for examination, reflecting the profound loss felt across the region.

The complexity of the situation was compounded by the ongoing wildfire and the challenging terrain of Canfield Mountain, which spans 24 acres of public and private land. Sheriff Norris noted that the thick brush, trees, and smoke hindered visibility, making it difficult to locate the shooter. A shelter-in-place order was issued for areas south of Hayden Lake Road and east of 15th Street, urging residents to stay indoors while law enforcement worked to secure the area.

Investigation and Suspect Identification

Using advanced technology, authorities identified a critical lead around 3:15 p.m. when they detected a stationary cellphone signal on Canfield Mountain. A SWAT team was dispatched to the location, where they discovered the body of a deceased male, later identified as 20-year-old Wess Roley, with a firearm nearby. Investigators believe Roley acted alone, using a high-powered rifle to execute the ambush. The cause of his death remains unclear, with officials uncertain whether he was killed during the exchange of gunfire with law enforcement or took his own life.

The crime scene was significantly compromised by the advancing wildfire, forcing authorities to quickly remove Roley’s body to preserve evidence. Sheriff Norris indicated that additional weapons might be discovered as the investigation continues, given the suspect’s apparent mobility during the attack. While Roley’s identity has been confirmed, no motive has been publicly disclosed, leaving investigators to explore potential conflicts or grievances that may have prompted such a violent act. The involvement of federal agencies, including the FBI, underscores the gravity of the incident and the need for a thorough investigation.

Roley, a recent transplant to Idaho from Arizona, was reportedly employed by his father’s tree-cutting business. Social media posts from his family indicated he was adapting well to life in Idaho, but authorities have not linked any specific affiliations or ideologies to the attack. The absence of a clear motive has fueled speculation, with experts suggesting that investigators are likely examining Roley’s interactions with local authorities or community members for clues.

Community Impact and Broader Implications

The ambush has reverberated through Coeur d’Alene, a city of approximately 56,000 residents known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The loss of two firefighters, described as top-notch professionals, has left the community in shock. Kootenai County Commissioner Bruce Mattare called the incident “unheard of,” emphasizing the rarity of such violence in the region. Residents, like 80-year-old Linda Tiger, expressed disbelief, noting that such acts are unprecedented in their close-knit community.

The attack highlights the vulnerability of first responders, who face inherent risks in their duties but are rarely prepared for targeted violence. Northern Lakes Fire Protection Chief Pat Riley, whose department was directly affected, expressed heartbreak, noting that while firefighters train for various emergencies, an ambush of this nature is beyond expectation. The incident has drawn national attention, with Idaho Governor Brad Little labeling it a “heinous direct assault” and calling for prayers for the victims’ families.

The ongoing wildfire, which has grown to 26 acres, continues to pose a threat, with firefighting efforts resuming on Monday after the area was deemed safe. The Idaho Department of Lands has deployed aircraft, heavy equipment, and specialized crews to combat the blaze, which remains a challenge due to the rugged terrain. The tragedy has also prompted discussions about the safety protocols for first responders and the need for enhanced coordination between fire and law enforcement agencies in crisis situations.

Nationally, the incident has sparked renewed focus on the risks faced by emergency personnel. The International Association of Fire Fighters and local leaders have called for increased support and resources to protect those who serve. The involvement of federal agencies and statements from figures like Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem indicate the broader implications for public safety and emergency response strategies. The attack serves as a grim reminder of the unpredictable dangers that can arise in seemingly routine operations, prompting calls for vigilance and preparedness.

Our Take

The deliberate ambush of firefighters on Canfield Mountain is a stark and tragic reminder of the sacrifices made by those who dedicate their lives to public safety. The calculated nature of this attack, using a wildfire as bait, reveals a disturbing level of premeditation that challenges the sense of security in communities like Coeur d’Alene. As investigations continue, the focus must remain on honoring the fallen, supporting the injured, and ensuring such tragedies spur meaningful action to protect first responders. The resilience of the community and the bravery of those who responded under fire reflect the strength of collective resolve, but the loss of life demands a renewed commitment to safeguarding those who serve.