Authorities have officially identified the two firefighters tragically killed in the Coeur d’Alene sniper ambush on Sunday, marking one of the darkest days in Idaho’s firefighting history.
According to fire officials, the fallen heroes are:
- Battalion Chief Frank Harwood, 42, of Kootenai County Fire & Rescue. A 17-year veteran and National Guard member, Harwood was known for his leadership, dedication, and service to both community and country. He leaves behind a wife and two young children.
- Battalion Chief John Morrison, 52, of the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department. Morrison had served for over 28 years and was deeply respected for his mentorship and tireless commitment to public safety.
A third firefighter, Engineer David Tysdal, 47, was critically injured during the attack. He has since undergone multiple surgeries and is now in stable condition, according to hospital officials.
🔥 The Ambush: Deliberate and Deadly
The shooting occurred Sunday afternoon while fire crews were responding to a brush fire on Canfield Mountain, just outside Coeur d’Alene. What initially appeared to be a routine wildfire response turned into a calculated ambush when the suspect, believed to have set the fire intentionally, opened fire from a concealed position.
The attacker used a 12-gauge shotgun loaded with rifled slugs—highly lethal ammunition. Investigators say the suspect waited until the firefighters were in position before launching the deadly assault.
🔍 Suspect Identified as Wess Roley
The gunman was later identified as 20-year-old Wess Roley, a transient with no serious criminal history. Roley was found dead near the scene from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. Law enforcement recovered the shotgun used in the attack, as well as a .22 rifle.
Authorities are still working to determine his motive. Although he had expressed a past interest in firefighting, no extremist ties or clear intent have yet been confirmed. The FBI, Idaho State Police, and local agencies continue to investigate.
🚔 Massive Law Enforcement Response
The sniper attack triggered an immediate and large-scale response. Over 300 officers, including FBI tactical teams, were deployed to the area. A shelter-in-place order was issued for nearby residents while law enforcement searched for the shooter, using cellphone tracking data to locate the suspect’s body.
The incident also temporarily paused firefighting efforts, allowing the blaze—now named the Nettleton Gulch Fire—to spread to more than 26 acres before being contained.
🕯️ A Community in Mourning
In the aftermath, a solemn procession honored the two fallen chiefs, as fellow firefighters, officials, and citizens lined the streets. Idaho Governor Brad Little ordered flags at half-staff, calling the attack a “cowardly and senseless act against public servants.”
The International Association of Fire Fighters and local departments nationwide have offered support, emphasizing the rising risks faced by first responders across America.
