A sniper ambush targeting firefighters in Idaho has led to the deaths of two responders, as police identify Wess Roley, a 20-year-old suspect connected to the incident. Authorities are investigating the motive behind the fire and subsequent attack, with many questions remaining unanswered.
Suspect Identified in Deadly Idaho Firefighter Ambush Attack
Suspect Identified in Deadly Idaho Firefighter Ambush Attack
Authorities have named 20-year-old Wess Roley as the primary suspect in the fatal sniper attack on Idaho firefighters that resulted in two deaths and one injury.
Authorities in Idaho have identified 20-year-old Wess Roley as the suspect responsible for a sniper attack that claimed the lives of two firefighters and left a third critically injured. This tragic incident occurred on Sunday when firefighters arrived at a fire ignited near Canfield Mountain, close to Coeur d'Alene. Reports suggest that Roley intentionally started the fire to draw first responders to the scene, setting the stage for the ambush.
During a late-night press conference, Sheriff Bob Norris provided a harrowing account of the events. He stated, "This was a total ambush. These firefighters did not have a chance." The two deceased firefighters included one from Coeur d'Alene and another from Kootenai County Fire and Rescue, while a third is reportedly in stable condition after suffering injuries in the shooting.
The chaotic situation unfolded shortly after initial fire reports were made at 13:21 PST (21:21 BST), followed by alarming reports of gunfire directed at the arriving firefighters just 40 minutes later. The fire quickly expanded, reaching approximately 20 acres by Sunday evening.
In the wake of the attack, over 300 law enforcement officers from multiple agencies, including local, state, and federal units, responded to the scene. The tactical response also featured two helicopters equipped with snipers. According to Sheriff Norris, Roley allegedly utilized a high-powered sporting rifle to execute the rapid-fire assault on the firefighters, creating significant confusion regarding the number of active shooters involved.
After several hours of gunfire, authorities managed to locate Roley, whose demise remains shrouded in mystery. It is unclear whether he died by self-inflicted means or was shot by a responding officer. Investigators continue to probe the motive behind the attack while grappling with the shocking impact of this tragic event on the community and the firefighting service.
