Wess Roley dies in fatal Idaho shooting
Fatal Idaho shooting death of Wess Roley
Investigators have confirmed the identity of the deceased individual found on Canfield Mountain as Wess Roley, a 20-year-old. According to law enforcement sources, this individual is believed to be the sole shooter involved in the fatal ambush that occurred on Sunday. The Kootenai County Sheriff’s office indicates that Roley is thought to have initiated a brush fire before turning his weapon towards responding firefighters.
The sheriff’s office has not identified any prior criminal record for Roley, though they have documented five interactions with local law enforcement. These encounters, described as minor by officials, included trespassing incidents and welfare checks.
The precise motivation behind the attack remains unknown to investigators. Sheriff Bob Norris expressed hope that an inventory of Roley’s vehicle might offer clues about his possible reasons. It is not yet clear if his potential interest in becoming a firefighter contributed to the alleged motive.
During the incident, responding deputies utilized a tactical decision to push Roley’s vehicle down an embankment, citing safety concerns and the need to prevent a possible escape. The vehicle, located at the scene, has yet to be examined.
Firefighter Ken Hector, who was called in to assist unexpectedly, described the event as shocking. He emphasized the difficulty firefighters face in anticipating such deliberate ambushes during wildland firefighting operations.
Coeur d’Alene city leaders have issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over the “senseless tragedy,” extending their thoughts to the victims’ families and urging community cooperation with ongoing investigations.
Idaho Governor Brad Little has ordered state flags to fly at half-staff as a mark of respect for the fallen firefighters. The injured firefighter is reported to be out of surgery and in stable condition.
The fire, now designated the Nettleton Gulch Fire, has expanded to cover 26 acres overnight. Fire containment efforts are described as challenging due to the rugged terrain, though aerial support has been effective.Officials anticipate establishing a fire line by the end of the day.
The specific type of fire starter used by the suspect has been identified by authorities as a flint fire starter.
