Suspect Identified in Idaho ‘Ambush’ That Resulted in Deaths of 2 Firefighters
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Following a tragic incident in Idaho that left two firefighters dead and another wounded in what has been described as an ‘ambush’, authorities have identified the suspect involved in the violent attack. The suspect, identified as Wess Roley, a 20-year-old individual, was found deceased alongside a weapon at Canfield Mountain in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho on Sunday, June 29.
Law enforcement sources revealed that Roley was the alleged gunman who fatally shot the two firefighters and inflicted injuries on a third responder as they were attending to a report of a wildfire. The officials have stated that Roley deliberately started the fire with the intention of ambushing the first responders, who encountered gunfire at approximately 2 p.m. on the fateful day.
Reports from CNN highlighted Roley’s aspirations of becoming a firefighter, as indicated by his grandfather, Dale Roley. Dale mentioned that Wess had a deep respect for law enforcement and firefighters, making the motive behind the attack puzzling. The grandfather shared that Wess was actively pursuing a career in firefighting and was previously engaged in the tree service industry.
Despite the initial confusion surrounding the suspect’s actions, authorities believe that Wess Roley acted alone in the ambush. The investigation is ongoing as authorities have yet to uncover a definitive motive for the violent attack. Through the use of cell phone data, law enforcement located the suspect’s body near the crime scene around 3:15 p.m. However, the circumstances of his death, whether by suicide or during a confrontation with the police, remain unclear.
The tragic incident has left a void in the community, with the names of the deceased firefighters yet to be released by officials. The third responder injured in the attack is reported to be in stable condition after receiving medical treatment at a local hospital. Sheriff Bob Norris of Kootenai County described the attack as a “total ambush,” emphasizing the lack of opportunity for the firefighters to defend themselves during the assault.
The community in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, is grappling with the aftermath of the senseless violence that claimed the lives of two brave firefighters. The shocking nature of the incident has prompted a deeper reflection on the safety and security of first responders as they courageously serve their communities in times of crisis.
As the investigation continues to unfold, the authorities are working diligently to piece together the events leading up to the ambush and to provide justice for the fallen firefighters and their families. The tragic loss serves as a somber reminder of the risks that firefighters and other emergency responders face daily in the line of duty, highlighting the importance of supporting and honouring their dedication to public service.