Family of Idaho Shooter Wess Roley Breaks Silence After Deadly Ambush That Killed Two Firefighters

About 300 law enforcement officers responded as Roley fired at people from the cover of the woods.

The family of 20-year-old Wess Roley, who fatally ambushed two firefighters and wounded another after allegedly luring them to a wooded area with a deliberately set brushfire in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, has issued a statement expressing heartbreak and confusion over the tragedy.

“At this time, we, the family of Wess Roley, would like to offer our most heartfelt condolences to the families of those whose lives were taken and to the community of Coeur d’Alene at large,” the family said through their attorney. “There are no words that can suffice for this tragedy and the infinite losses suffered by those affected by this shooting. We do not understand why this happened or how this came about.”

No motivation for the sadistic attack has been identified yet, though investigators have ruled out any form of terrorism

Roley opened fire on firefighters Sunday as they responded to a blaze in a forested area near Coeur d’Alene. Authorities believe he may have intentionally set the fire to lure first responders into an ambush. He died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound after a standoff involving hundreds of law enforcement personnel.

The deadly encounter left two firefighters dead and a third seriously injured, though the injured victim remains in stable condition. Roley reportedly emerged from the woods and began shooting shortly after speaking with the firefighters about his vehicle parked near the fire.

Roley fatally shot two firefighters

Officials said the gunman had no known ties to extremist groups and there is no indication the act was terrorism-related. Investigators have not yet determined a motive behind the brutal attack.

The fire continues to burn and has already consumed more than 26 acres, according to local fire authorities.

Law enforcement officials said Roley had multiple minor interactions with police since arriving in Coeur d’Alene earlier this year, including welfare checks and trespassing reports. He had no criminal record in Idaho, California, or Arizona — the three states where he lived. Reports indicate he was living out of his vehicle at the time of the incident.

Roley appeared to have been living in his car and had interacted with police at least five times since arriving in the Coeur d’Alene sometime in 2024

Court records reveal that Roley’s early life was marked by family turmoil. He was born in California and experienced a contentious divorce between his parents at age 10. During that legal process, his mother accused Roley’s father of threatening to set a fire and use a gun—allegations the father denied.

According to Roley’s grandfather, the young man had aspirations of becoming a firefighter himself, specifically in the field of forestry, and may have relocated to Idaho in pursuit of that goal.

“We are devastated,” the family added. “Our hearts and spirits are broken for the lost and hurting, and for our own loss as well.” The family said they intend to fully cooperate with authorities as the investigation continues.