Authorities in Idaho confirmed that two firefighters were shot and killed, and a third critically injured, after being ambushed while responding to a brush fire on Canfield Mountain near Coeur d’Alene. Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris said the fire was deliberately set to lure emergency personnel into the area, where gunfire then erupted.
Law enforcement engaged with the suspect while trying to secure the area, which spans over 17,000 square feet of rugged terrain. Cellphone data helped officers pinpoint a location, where they later found a deceased man identified as the suspected gunman, Wess Roley. A weapon was found near the body, and officials believe he acted alone.
The firefighting community has been shaken by what Governor Brad Little described as a “heinous act of violence.” The names of the fallen firefighters have not yet been released. A third firefighter, who was seriously wounded, remains hospitalized following surgery.
Flags in Idaho were ordered to fly at half-staff in honor of the victims, and authorities have vowed a full investigation into the tragedy.
