Wess ‘Riley’ Roley Idaho Shooter – In a shocking and tragic incident on Canfield Mountain in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, two firefighters were killed and another wounded in what authorities are describing as a “calculated ambush” orchestrated by Wess ‘Riley’ Roley. The attack occurred Sunday afternoon as fire crews responded to a fast-moving wildfire believed to have been intentionally set by the suspect to lure first responders into a deadly trap.
The incident began around 2 p.m. when firefighters arrived to contain a blaze rapidly consuming the mountainous terrain. Unbeknownst to them, a sniper lay hidden in the dense forest, prepared to launch a deadly attack. As soon as they began their work, they came under fire. Kootenai County Sheriff Robert Norris described the assault as a “cowardly” act in a press conference that evening, stating, “These firefighters did not have a chance.”
Authorities say that as firefighters were being targeted, law enforcement also came under fire while trying to reach the scene and manage both the active shooter and the growing wildfire. A lockdown was issued for nearby residents, urging them to shelter in place during the ongoing threat.
The standoff came to an end when a SWAT team discovered a body—believed to be Roley’s—in a wooded area not far from the scene. A firearm was recovered close by. Investigators tracked his location through a signal from his cellphone, but due to the fire’s spread, recovery efforts and forensic analysis were significantly hampered.
While Sheriff Norris withheld specific details pending further investigation and formal identification by the county coroner, multiple sources confirmed to the Associated Press that the deceased suspect was indeed Wess ‘Riley’ Roley. Authorities believe he acted alone in this premeditated attack.
The wildfire, still burning as of Monday, has expanded to nearly 30 acres, complicating search efforts and heightening local fears. Residents in the vicinity described a scene of chaos and disbelief. “I’ve never seen anything like it,” said Mark Lathrop, a local resident. “Helicopters overhead, law enforcement everywhere. And to think that firefighters were called out there only to be gunned down—it’s unspeakable evil.”
The injured firefighter is reported to be in stable condition following surgery, while the names of the two fallen firefighters have not yet been released, pending family notification.
Federal and state agencies, including the FBI, ATF, and regional fire investigators, have deployed teams to assist in the investigation. Tactical units have also been sent to secure the area and provide support to local law enforcement.
As authorities continue to investigate Roley’s motives and background, the community is reeling from the loss. The attack has struck a deep nerve not only in Coeur d’Alene but across the nation, as it underscores the dangers faced by first responders. “These men were there to save lives,” Sheriff Norris emphasized. “They were ambushed instead. We will do everything in our power to ensure justice is served.”
