Community members pay their respects to firefighters who lost their lives in an ambush.
In a tragic incident near Coeur d’Alene, two firefighters were killed in an ambush shooting while responding to a brush fire. Chief Frank Harwood and Battalion Chief John Morrison lost their lives while a third firefighter was critically injured. This shocking act of violence has left the community in mourning, reflecting on the sacrifices made by first responders and the dangers they face in their line of duty.
In a heartbreaking incident that shook the local community, two firefighters were tragically killed and a third injured in an ambush shooting near Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, on June 29, 2025. The fallen heroes have been identified as Chief Frank Harwood, age 42, of the Kootenai County Fire and Rescue, and Battalion Chief John Morrison, age 52, from the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department. Their dedication to saving lives was cut short in an act of violence that few could have anticipated.
The tense situation unfolded when the firefighters responded to a brush fire that had been intentionally set by a 20-year-old transient named Wess Roley. Prior to the shooting, first responders had asked Roley to move his vehicle. However, it is estimated that after setting the wildfire using flint, Roley decided to launch an ambush on the brave firefighters who were working to contain the flames.
Equipped with a shotgun, Roley opened fire as the firefighting team arrived on the scene. In a swift and alarming turn of events, the lives of the two experienced firefighters were lost, and another, Engineer David Tysdal, age 47, was critically injured. Fortunately, Tysdal underwent two successful surgeries and is showing signs of recovery. He is currently surrounded by his loving family at the hospital, who are thankful for the outpouring of support.
The impact of this tragedy has reverberated deeply throughout the local community. As news of the ambush spread, many residents gathered along the highway to pay their respects, creating heartfelt vigils for the fallen firefighters. Their selflessness and service have not gone unnoticed, and community members voiced their solidarity during this difficult time.
In honor of the two brave firefighters, Idaho’s Governor has ordered flags to fly at half-staff. This gesture reflects the collective mourning felt not just by the families, but also by friends, colleagues, and neighbors who recognize the sacrifice made by these valiant individuals.
Wess Roley, despite his peaceful aspirations to become a firefighter, was found dead near the scene, close to the weapon used in the attack. While law enforcement officials have stated that he had no significant criminal history, they highlighted previous minor interactions with the police which raised concerns about his behavior. The reasons behind his shocking actions remain unclear as no manifesto or evident motivations have emerged from the investigation.
After the shooting, law enforcement deployed two helicopters to the scene, complete with armed snipers, to ensure the safety of the remaining first responders. Fortunately, no additional victims were reported aside from the firefighters directly involved.
The Idaho Department of Lands reported that the wildfire ignited by Roley burned approximately 26 acres. With this kind of devastation, a thorough investigation is underway to understand the motives and the events leading up to this unprecedented incident against firefighters. The local law enforcement is working tirelessly to piece together exactly what transpired, and families are left grappling with the grief of losing their loved ones to such senseless violence.
In response to this mind-boggling incident, firefighting departments in the area are on heightened alert and have increased safety measures to protect their personnel in future emergencies. This tragic event underscores the inherent dangers first responders face each day as they bravely serve their communities, often putting their lives on the line for others.
As the community mourns the loss of their heroes, the unity and support they’ve shown for the families and loved ones of the victims serves as a reminder of the love and compassion that resides among them. Forever remembered, the sacrifices made by Frank Harwood and John Morrison will resonate in the hearts of many.
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