On Sunday, June 29, 2025, two firefighters tragically lost their lives in an ambush shooting while responding to a wildfire report near Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. The incident took place on Canfield Mountain, and the victims have been identified as Kootenai County Fire and Rescue Battalion Chief Frank Harwood, 42, and Coeur d’Alene Fire Department Battalion Chief John Morrison, 52. The third person involved, who was wounded, is Dave Tysdal, an engineer with the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department, who is currently in critical condition at a local hospital.
Details of the Shooting
The shooting occurred around 2 p.m. on June 29, as the firefighters arrived to deal with a wildfire. The shooter, 20-year-old Wess Roley, had deliberately set the fire to ambush the responders. He opened fire on the firefighters, killing Harwood and Morrison, and severely wounding Tysdal. Authorities later found Roley’s body near the scene with a weapon, suggesting that he may have died by suicide.
Victims Remembered
Frank Harwood had been with Kootenai County Fire and Rescue for 17 years and was a highly respected leader. He was also a former U.S. Army National Guard combat engineer. Harwood was married with two children. His loss has deeply affected his colleagues, with Chief Christopher Way describing him as an exceptional leader.
John Morrison had served the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department for more than 28 years, holding various ranks, including firefighter, engineer, captain, and battalion chief. He was also a paramedic. His colleague, Gabe Eckert, fondly remembered Morrison as someone who cared deeply about being both a better father and firefighter.
The Shooter’s Background
Wess Roley, the suspected shooter, had plans to become a firefighter, according to his grandfather. Roley reportedly respected law enforcement and firefighters, which made the shooting even more puzzling. His motive for targeting firefighters remains unclear, although some suggest that personal issues may have played a role. Authorities are still investigating the case and have not released further details on why the shooting took place.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities believe Roley acted alone. While the shooter’s motives are unclear, the loss of two dedicated firefighters and the injury to another has left the community in shock. Chief Tom Greif of the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department shared his sorrow, calling the event an incredible tragedy. The firefighting community has united to mourn the loss of their colleagues and show support for the injured.
The ambush shooting of the two firefighters and the injury of a third has shocked both the local and national communities. Harwood and Morrison were seasoned professionals with long careers in fire services, leaving behind a legacy of service and leadership. As investigations continue, many are left questioning why such a tragedy would unfold, especially involving someone who had once respected the very profession he attacked.
