Mystery Behind Fatal Idaho Firefighter Ambush

A tragic incident unfolded in Idaho as two firefighters were killed and another wounded in a suspected ambush by a young drifter. Authorities identified the alleged assailant as Wess Roley, 20, who died at the scene after exchanging gunfire with law enforcement.

Roley, described as a transient with family ties in the region, allegedly set the blaze to lure responders into his line of fire. The motivation behind this grievous act remains unknown. The two deceased firefighters were Frank Harwood, 42, and John Morrison, 52, both battalion chiefs with long tenures in their departments.

The firefight ensued on Canfield Mountain outside Coeur d'Alene as Roley perched from the trees, firing at first responders. Despite the chaos, law enforcement swiftly acted, using cellphone data to locate and surround Roley. His actions, however, still puzzle investigators as the community mourns its fallen heroes.

(With inputs from agencies.)