Ambush Attack on Firefighters in Idaho: 2 Killed, 1 Critically Injured

The ambush attack occurred on Sunday afternoon in a popular recreation area at Canfield Mountain, where firefighters were responding to a wildfire. According to Kootenai County Sheriff Robert Norris, the suspect used a flint starter to start the fire, luring the firefighters to the scene. The firefighters, identified as Battalion Chief Frank Harwood, 42, and Battalion Chief John Morrison, 52, were killed in the attack, while engineer Dave Tysdal, 39, was critically injured and underwent two successful surgeries on Monday.

The suspect, Wess Roley, was found dead at the scene with a firearm, and it appears he shot himself, according to Sheriff Norris. Roley’s vehicle was located in an embankment near the scene, and investigators are currently processing the area. The sheriff’s department has not found any writings that would indicate the suspect’s motive, and they are looking into his social media presence for any clues.

Victims Identified as Frank Harwood and John Morrison

The victims, Frank Harwood and John Morrison, were both experienced firefighters with a combined service of over 40 years. Harwood, a 17-year veteran of the department, was a well-respected former Army National Guard member and is survived by his wife and two children. Morrison, a 28-year veteran of the department, had served the city of Coeur d’Alene for over 28 years and was known for his dedication to his work.

Kootenai County Fire & Rescue Chief Christopher Way said at a news conference on Monday that the families of Harwood and Morrison and the firefighting community as a whole are dealing with “unimaginable loss.” Way added that local law enforcement agencies are now going on every call with the fire department to ensure safety.

Key Highlights of the Incident

* Two firefighters, Frank Harwood and John Morrison, were killed in the ambush attack
* Engineer Dave Tysdal was critically injured and underwent two successful surgeries on Monday
* The suspect, Wess Roley, was found dead at the scene with a firearm
* Roley’s vehicle was located in an embankment near the scene, and investigators are currently processing the area
* The motive behind the attack remains unknown, with investigators scouring Roley’s social media presence for clues

Suspect Lured Firefighters by Sparking Fire, Sheriff Says

According to Sheriff Norris, the suspect used a flint starter to start the fire, luring the firefighters to the scene. The sheriff believes the attack was intentional and that the firefighters did not have a chance. Investigators initially believed there might have been more than one sniper, but now say the evidence indicates it was Roley armed with a shotgun.

Suspect’s Background and Motive

Wess Roley, the suspect, had previously moved from Arizona to Idaho to work for his father’s tree-cutting company. His paternal grandfather, Dale Roley, described Wess as “pretty much a normal kid” who had recently lost his cellphone and did not have a “high-powered rifle.” Roley’s family offered its condolences to the families of the firefighters who were killed and to the Coeur d’Alene community, stating that they do not understand why the tragedy occurred and are cooperating with authorities to seek answers.

Investigation and Aftermath

The investigation into the ambush attack is ongoing, with authorities scouring the scene and reviewing Roley’s social media presence for clues. The Nettleton Gulch Fire has spread to approximately 26 acres, but no evacuations have been ordered, and no structures are at risk. The firefighting community is coming together to support the families of the victims and to ensure safety in the aftermath of the attack.

Conclusion:
The ambush attack on firefighters in Idaho is a tragic incident that has left two families without loved ones and a community in shock. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to determine the motive behind the attack and to ensure safety for first responders. The incident highlights the risks and challenges faced by firefighters and law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line to protect and serve their communities.

Keywords:
Idaho firefighting ambush, Wess Roley, Frank Harwood, John Morrison, Dave Tysdal, Kootenai County Sheriff Robert Norris, Coeur d’Alene, Nettleton Gulch Fire, firefighter safety, law enforcement investigation

Hashtags:
#IdahoFirefightingAmbush #WessRoley #FrankHarwood #JohnMorrison #DaveTysdal #KootenaiCountySheriff #CoeurDAlene #NettletonGulchFire #FirefighterSafety #LawEnforcementInvestigation #FirstResponders #TragedyInIdaho



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