‘We grieve with you’: Utah firefighters stand in solidarity with Idaho

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — Support is pouring in from Utah for the two Idaho Firefighters who were killed after they were ambushed and shot while responding to a wildfire near Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

Taking to social media, Garland Fire Department honored the two heroes saying, “Their sacrifice is not just a loss for their families, but for the entire community and the first responder family as a whole.”

Salt Lake City Fire Department posted as well, saying they “stand in solidarity with our neighbors to the North.”

Hurricane Valley Fire & Rescue said, “Our hearts are with the families, first responders, and agencies impacted by this tragic and senseless act in Idaho. We stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in the fire and law enforcement community during this incredibly difficult time.“

Diamond Valley Fire & Rescue, Kanab City Fire, and Layton City Fire are among fire departments across the state coming out in support of the two firefighters who were killed in the line of duty.

This week is also commemorated as “Wildland Firefighter Week of Remembrance,” where we honor the lives of wildland firefighters who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, 38 firefighters have died in the line of duty so far this year.

What we know so far

Authorities said the suspect, identified as Wess Roley, 20, intentionally set the fire to ambush the crew on Sunday. He was perched in a sniper position, firing at the firefighters. They took cover behind firetrucks, but two died and a third were wounded during a barrage of gunfire over several hours, officials added.

First responders made urgent calls for help on their radios at Canfield Mountain just north of Coeur d’Alene: “Everybody’s shot up here … send law enforcement now,” according to one dispatch.

It is unknown at this time how Roley died but he was found dead in the mountains with his firearm besides him.

A motive for the incident has not been released so far.