From the Associated Press: BOISE, Idaho (AP) — As a wildfire began to sow panic in a small northern Idaho mountain community, a group of firefighters who rushed put out the blaze instead found themselves in an unexpected shootout.
A man who had intentionally set the fire to ambush the crew on Sunday was perched in a sniper position, firing at the firefighters. They took cover behind firetrucks, but two died and a third was wounded during a barrage of gunfire over several hours, authorities said.
First responders made urgent calls for help on their radios at Canfield Mountain just north of Coeur d’Alene: “Everybody’s shot up here … send law enforcement now,” according to one dispatch.
Two helicopters converged on the area, armed with snipers ready to take out the suspect if needed, while the FBI used his cellphone data to track him and the sheriff ordered residents to shelter in place. They eventually found the suspect dead in the mountains, his firearm beside him.
Monday morning, a law enforcement official told the AP that the gunman has been identified Wess Roley, 20.
It is still unclear whether he was shot by police or whether he shot himself.
Idaho sh**ter confirmed as 20-year-old Wes Roley. No other info provided.
Why the secrecy? pic.twitter.com/r69vCIdtnH
— Paul A. Szypula 🇺🇸 (@Bubblebathgirl) June 30, 2025
🚨 20 year old Wes Roley identified as the Idaho shooter. Had multiple arrests for violence, significant mental health issues, and was the subject of a restraining order. Thus, he was barred from owning or possessing firearms. Investigation continuing. pic.twitter.com/oK3FPYQyvy
— John Jackson (@hissgoescobra) June 30, 2025
READ MORE from the Associated Press.
The suspected gunman in Idaho has been identified as Wess Roley, a law enforcement official told @AP. https://t.co/zVmybFabFH
— Alanna Durkin Richer (@aedurkinricher) June 30, 2025
The National Fraternal Order of Police released the following statement:
The National Fraternal Order of Police condemns the horrific ambush that claimed the lives of two firefighters and left another critically wounded in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.
This was not just an attack on individuals—it was a calculated assault on the very people who protect our communities. Firefighters answered a call for help and were met with gunfire. There is no justification, no excuse, and no tolerance for this kind of violence.
An attack on one first responder is an attack on us all.
The FOP stands in full solidarity with the fire service. We grieve for the fallen, support the wounded, and back the brave men and women who continue to serve despite the risks.
We will not be silent. We will not forget. And we will always stand united.
The National Fraternal Order of Police condemns the horrific ambush that claimed the lives of two firefighters and left another critically wounded in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.
This was not just an attack on individuals—it was a calculated assault on the very people who protect our… pic.twitter.com/1nmaxeIs7w
— National Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) (@GLFOP) June 30, 2025
