Firefighters Ambushed: A Tragic Day in Idaho

A tragic event unfolded on a mountain in Idaho, where two brave firefighters lost their lives and another was critically injured. The suspect, 20-year-old Wess Roley, is believed to have started a fire to lure firefighters into an ambush. The victims were identified as Battalion Chief Frank Harwood, 42, and Battalion Chief John Morrison, 52, both dedicated firefighters with years of experience. Roley, who had no criminal history, was found dead after a shootout with law enforcement. Investigators are still trying to understand his motives, as no manifesto or clear reason for the attack has been found. Roley's Instagram posts, which included images of him in camouflage gear, are being scrutinized for clues. The firefighters were shot while responding to the blaze on Canfield Mountain. They had initially engaged with Roley, asking him to move his truck, before the shooting began. Law enforcement believes Roley targeted responders from a tree, making it a deadly ambush. Roley's truck remains at the crime scene, partially burned by the wildfire. Investigators have not yet searched it due to the ongoing fire and the need to recover Roley's body quickly. The suspect had been in the area for most of 2024 and had minimal interactions with local police, none of which were criminal in nature. The community is in shock, with residents expressing their grief and confusion. Many are struggling to understand why someone would target firefighters who risk their lives to protect others. The incident has drawn worldwide attention, leaving the tight-knit community of Coeur d’Alene reeling.