Key Point Summary – Firefighter Ambush on Canfield Mountain

• Wess Roley named as the sniper behind deadly ambush
• Two firefighters killed, one injured during wildfire call
• Roley allegedly set blaze to lure emergency responders
• Gunfire erupted shortly after crews arrived on scene
• Law enforcement deployed helicopters with snipers
• Roley found dead near his weapon on the mountain
• Authorities vow full investigation into shooter’s motive

Wildfire Call Turns Into Bloodbath

Authorities have identified Wess Roley as the gunman who orchestrated Sunday’s horrifying ambush on Canfield Mountain. The attack left two firefighters dead and a third critically injured.

According to investigators, Roley intentionally sparked a wildfire to lure emergency crews into a trap. As firefighters arrived, he opened fire with a high-powered weapon.

His body was later found on the mountain, close to a rifle. Authorities tracked him using his cell signal before locating the scene.

Gunfire Erupts on Mountain Trail

The chaos began just after 1:20 p.m. when reports of a brush fire came in from the wooded hills of Canfield Mountain near Coeur d’Alene.

Within minutes of arrival, two responding firefighters were gunned down. A third suffered critical injuries and underwent emergency surgery.

Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris said, “This was a calculated ambush. These brave men didn’t stand a chance.”

Snipers Deployed as Scene Spirals

Terrifying radio traffic revealed the panic. One responder yelled, “Send law enforcement now! Everyone’s shot up here!”

Another warned: “Stop. Do not come up here. It’s an ambush.”

Sheriff Norris responded fast. By 4:30 p.m., two helicopters carrying police snipers flew above the danger zone. Orders were clear: take the shooter down if possible.

Gunman Found Dead Near His Weapon

Law enforcement located Roley’s body that evening. He lay close to his gun. It’s unclear if he died by suicide or was shot during the exchange.

Sheriff Norris later confirmed Roley acted alone. Ballistics and weapon types matched a single shooter.

Still, many questions remain unanswered. Investigators continue to comb the scene, expecting to recover more weapons and clues.

Fire Crews Forced to Retreat

While bullets flew, the fire grew. Flames spread across more than 20 acres as firefighters pulled back.

Northern Lakes Fire Chief Pat Riley made the tough call: no more personnel would enter until the area was secure.

The mountain, usually a haven for hikers and bikers, had become a battlefield.

Mourning and Outrage Ripple Across State

Later that evening, a solemn procession transported the fallen firefighters to Spokane. Ambulances, fire engines, and police cruisers moved slowly under a darkening sky.

Locals lined the highway overpasses, waving flags and holding signs. Some saluted. Others wept.

Idaho Governor Brad Little didn’t mince words. “This was a heinous assault,” he posted. “We are heartbroken.”

Federal Support and Public Fury

Reactions poured in. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said, “Justice will be served.”

The FBI sent in tactical and forensic teams. Meanwhile, state lawmakers issued a statement condemning the “vicious attack on first responders.”

Roley’s motive remains murky. Investigators are digging into his background, searching for past complaints, threats, or red flags.

Community Left Shaken But United

Canfield Mountain, once peaceful, now bears the scars of violence. Yellow tape flutters where wildflowers once grew. Bullet holes mark tree trunks. The smell of smoke lingers.

But despite the tragedy, the community stands strong.

Flags fly at half-mast. Flowers cover firehouse steps. Citizens bring food, hugs, and handwritten notes.

And firefighters, though shaken, vow to continue.

Outlook as Investigation Deepens

Authorities expect more evidence to surface. Roley’s past may hold answers. Did he plan this alone? Did he leave a manifesto or digital trail?

One thing is certain: Idaho won’t forget this day.

Not the smoke. Or the gunfire. Not the courage.

And certainly not the names of the fallen.

Their sacrifice echoes across the trees of Canfield Mountain. And the search for justice has just begun.