Idaho Firefighter Ambush: Suspect Identified, Two Killed in Deliberate Wildfire Attack

Deliberate Wildfire Ambush

• ⚠️ A man deliberately set a wildfire in northern Idaho to ambush first responders, resulting in a deadly attack.
• 🎯 The suspect, identified as Wes Roelly, allegedly came to Canfield Mountain to start the fire and lure in first responders.

Attack on First Responders

• 🚒 Firefighters arrived at the scene just before 1:30 PM to assess and combat the brush fire.
• 🎯 While on scene, they began taking fire from the suspect, who had taken a sniper position in the wooded area.
• ⏱️ The suspect began firing approximately 20 minutes after the firefighters arrived.

Casualties and Suspect's Demise

• 💔 Two firefighters were killed in the ambush: one from Cordelane and one from Kootenai Fire and Rescue.
• 🏥 A third firefighter from Cordelane was injured, underwent surgery, and is in stable condition but still fighting for their life.
• 🕵️ Authorities used cell phone data to locate the suspect, leading to an exchange of gunfire.
• ❓ It remains unclear whether the suspect died from the gunfire exchange or took his own life before his body was found around 7:20 PM.

Investigation and Recovery

• 🚁 A helicopter spotted the suspect's body with a rifle nearby.
• 🔬 His body was recovered for an autopsy and to examine any electronics for timeline reconstruction.
• 🚒 Firefighters are actively working to contain the brush fire, which was 20 acres with no containment as of last night.

Community Impact

• 😔 The community is heartbroken and has expressed strong support for their first responders.
• 🚓 Over 300 law enforcement officers from various levels responded to the scene.