Authorities in northern Idaho have identified Wess Roley as the suspect behind a deadly ambush that killed two firefighters and injured a third near Coeur d’Alene on Sunday. According to officials, Roley allegedly started a wildfire on Canfield Mountain, a popular recreation area, with the intent to lure first responders into a trap. As firefighters arrived to battle the blaze around 1:30 p.m., they came under sudden gunfire, resulting in a chaotic and dangerous scene.

Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris stated that the attack was clearly premeditated and intentional, emphasizing that the firefighters “did not have a chance.” Law enforcement, including over 300 officers and FBI tactical teams, quickly locked down the area, searching the rugged, smoke-filled terrain for the shooter. During the search, officers faced sniper fire and uncertainty about the number of suspects or potential casualties.

Authorities used cellphone data to track a signal that had remained stationary in the wooded area. By late afternoon, a tactical response team located Roley’s body with a firearm nearby, as flames from the wildfire threatened the scene. Investigators believe Roley acted alone and that he may have placed additional weapons in the area, which will be searched as conditions allow. The fire was burning dangerously close to the suspect’s remains, requiring urgent recovery efforts.

The two deceased firefighters—one from the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department and one from Kootenai County Fire and Rescue—were pronounced dead at the hospital. The third firefighter, who sustained severe injuries, underwent surgery and was reported to be in stable condition but “fighting for his life.” The names of the fallen firefighters have not yet been released. Idaho Governor Brad Little condemned the attack, calling it a “heinous direct assault” on the state’s brave first responders.