An armored police vehicle travels towards an area where multiple firefighters were attacked when responding to a fire in the Canfield Mountain area outside Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.
Latest Updates on Coeur d’Alene, Idaho Wildfire Ambush of Firefighters (June 29, 2025)
On Sunday, June 29, 2025, a tragic ambush in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, resulted in the deaths of two firefighters and severe injuries to a third while they responded to a brush fire on Canfield Mountain. Below are the latest updates based on available information:
Incident Overview
- Timeline and Initial Response: At approximately 1:21 p.m. local time, a brush fire was reported on the east side of Canfield Mountain, a 24-acre natural area near Coeur d’Alene, about 30 miles from Spokane, Washington. Firefighters from the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department and Kootenai County Fire and Rescue arrived around 1:30 p.m. By 2:00 p.m., they reported being shot at, prompting a multi-agency law enforcement response, including the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office, Idaho State Police, and Spokane County Sheriff’s Office.
- Casualties: Two firefighters—one from the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department and one from Kootenai County Fire and Rescue—were killed. A third firefighter from Coeur d’Alene was injured, underwent surgery, and is in stable condition but “fighting for his life.”
- Suspect: A 20-year-old male, identified as Wess Roley, was found deceased on Canfield Mountain with a firearm nearby, believed to be the lone shooter. Authorities used cell phone data to locate him around 7:30 p.m. The body was removed due to the approaching fire. The motive remains under investigation, and it’s unclear if Roley shot himself or was killed during the exchange of gunfire with law enforcement.
Fire and Ambush Details
- Intentional Fire: Authorities believe the suspect deliberately set the fire, named the Nettleton Gulch Fire, to lure firefighters and law enforcement into an ambush. The fire grew from 15-20 acres on Sunday evening to 26 acres by Monday morning, with firefighting efforts delayed due to the active shooter situation. No structures have been lost, but the blaze continues to burn in steep terrain with dense underbrush.
- Ambush Execution: The suspect used a high-powered, modern sporting rifle, described as well-prepared for the terrain. Firefighters were shot almost immediately upon arrival, with Sheriff Robert Norris stating, “This was a total ambush. These firefighters did not have a chance.” Gunfire came from multiple directions, complicating the response.
Law Enforcement and Community Response
- Law Enforcement Efforts: Over 300 law enforcement officers, including SWAT teams, FBI agents, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives personnel, responded. Helicopters with heat-seeking technology and snipers were deployed, though smoke hindered operations. A shelter-in-place order for areas south of Hayden Lake Road and east of 15th Street was lifted Sunday night after the suspect was found. A no-fly zone, including drone restrictions, was enforced to protect operations.
- Official Statements:
- Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris called the attack “senseless and tragic beyond words,” emphasizing the intentional nature of the ambush.
- Idaho Governor Brad Little condemned the incident as a “heinous direct assault on our brave firefighters,” urging residents to stay clear and pray for the victims.
- International Association of Fire Fighters President Edward Kelly described the attack as a “heinous act of violence,” confirming the deaths of two members.
- Community Impact: Coeur d’Alene residents, shocked by the unprecedented violence in their city of 55,000, lined streets with flags to honor first responders. Locals like Linda Tiger, a 30-year resident, expressed disbelief, noting the area’s reputation for safety.
Ongoing Investigation and Fire Management
- Investigation: Authorities are probing the suspect’s motives, with no clear indication yet of what drove the attack. Investigators are examining whether the 911 call reporting the fire was made by the suspect, though Sheriff Norris believes it was not. Additional searches of the area are planned once the fire threat subsides, as more weapons may be present. The crime scene was compromised due to the need to remove the suspect’s body as the fire approached.
- Fire Management: The Idaho Department of Lands reported that fire crews, supported by aircraft, water tankers, and heavy equipment, began combating the Nettleton Gulch Fire on Monday morning after the area was deemed safe. The fire’s growth and challenging terrain continue to pose risks.
Community and Official Reactions
- Local Sentiment: Residents like Brian Hadley, who heard gunshots while biking on Canfield Mountain, described the incident as “heartbreaking.” Graham Christensen, a local trail alliance leader, noted the area’s history of safe recreational use and the rarity of such violence.
- Federal and State Support: FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino and Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed federal support, with tactical assets deployed. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated that “justice will be served.”
- Historical Context: The incident recalls the 1992 Ruby Ridge standoff, 75 miles north, which fueled militia movements, though no direct link has been established.
Current Status
As of Monday, June 30, 2025, the suspect is believed to be neutralized, and no further threat to the community is reported. The wildfire, now at 26 acres, remains active, with firefighting efforts ongoing. The investigation continues to uncover the shooter’s motives and any additional evidence on Canfield Mountain. Residents are urged to stay vigilant due to the fire’s persistence.
This tragic event has shaken Coeur d’Alene, highlighting the dangers faced by first responders and prompting calls for community support and prayers for the victims’ families. For the latest developments, follow reputable news sources or official updates from the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office.
