Firefighters Ambushed and Killed in Targeted Attack on Canfield Mountain

The chilling audio recording captured the terror in a firefighter's voice as he desperately called for police backup in Idaho. He reported that his colleagues had been shot, describing the scene as an active shooter situation. Two firefighters tragically lost their lives, and another was critically injured in the ambush. The attack occurred on Canfield Mountain near Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, where the firefighters were responding to a wildfire. The gunman, concealed in camouflage, had intentionally started the fire to lure the firefighters into a deadly trap.

The surviving firefighter's urgent call for help highlighted the dire situation. He reported that multiple firefighters were down, emphasizing the severity of the attack. Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris later confirmed the devastating loss, stating that the firefighters had no chance. One firefighter from the Coeur d'Alene Fire Department and another from Kootenai County Fire and Rescue died while being transported to the hospital. The third injured firefighter underwent surgery and was fighting for their life. The deliberately set fire, now known as the Nettleton Gulch Fire, continued to burn, claiming more lives and injuring others overnight. Firefighters continued their efforts to contain the blaze, facing challenging terrain.

Law enforcement swiftly responded to the scene, implementing lockdowns in nearby areas and actively searching for the shooter. After hours of searching, the Kootenai County Sheriff's office confirmed the discovery of a deceased male on Canfield Mountain, believed to be the suspect. The suspect was later identified as Wess Roley, who was confirmed dead late Sunday night after an exchange of gunfire with officers. A firearm was found near his body.

In a poignant display of unity, residents of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, lined the streets with American flags as a procession of police cars and fire engines paid tribute to the fallen firefighters. The deceased firefighters were transported to Spokane. Members of the public gathered on overpasses in North Idaho to offer their respects. The identities of the deceased were not yet released.

Sheriff Norris had previously described the scene, noting the deaths and casualties, and the potential for civilians still on the mountain. He emphasized the rarity of such an event in a rural setting, expressing shock at the violence.