Fire engineer Dave Tysdal is currently fighting for his life after being shot by Wess Roley
Two firefighters lost their lives and a third sustained critical injuries after a gunman opened fire on crews responding to a brush fire on Canfield Mountain near Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, on Sunday. Authorities confirmed that the fire had been deliberately set with the apparent intent of ambushing emergency responders. Firefighters began taking fire within an hour of being deployed, even as the blaze continued to spread.
Who is Dave Tysdal, Coeur d’Alene Fire Department engineer shot by Wess Roley in Idaho firefighters shooting
Multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office, Idaho State Police, and Coeur d’Alene Police Department, were involved in an exchange of gunfire with the suspect that lasted roughly 90 minutes, according to Kootenai County Sheriff Robert Norris. The fallen firefighters were identified as Kootenai County Fire and Rescue Battalion Chief Frank Harwood and Coeur d’Alene Fire Department Battalion Chief John Morrison.
This is the surviving FireFighter from Coeur d' Alene. He is seriously injured and fighting for life, but stable.
His family and coworkers are asking for your prayers.
Engineer Dave Tysdal was shot and critically injured in the intentional "sniper event" shooting yesterday… pic.twitter.com/zNuhSUMaBt
— Whatsup – The Purple Whale (@80strolls) July 1, 2025
The injured firefighter, Coeur d’Alene Fire Department engineer Dave Tysdal, remains in critical condition after undergoing two surgeries. He is currently surrounded by family and has been able to open his eyes, according to a statement shared by Fire Chief Tom Greif.
Age 47 Dave is seriously injured and fighting for life, but stable. Engineer Dave Tysdal was shot and critically injured in the shooting carried out by Wess Roley near Coeur d’Alene, Idaho that killed two other firefighters.
Dave is recovering in the hospital after two surgeries and has been with the CDA Fire Department for 23 years.
“We thank everyone for their love and support,” Tysdal’s wife said in a statement read by Coeur d’Alene Fire Chief Tom Greif. “Dave is surrounded by his family and he’s able to open his eyes. The two surgeries have gone well.”
The three firefighters were widely recognized for their long-standing service and deep commitment to the community, having collectively dedicated nearly 70 years to the profession. Frank Harwood, 42, had served Kootenai County Fire and Rescue for 17 years. A husband and father of two, he had previously worked as a combat engineer in the Army National Guard.
John Morrison, 52, had been with the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department for over 28 years, rising through the ranks from firefighter to battalion chief. Gabe Eckert, president of the firefighters’ union, recalled his last memory with Morrison—sharing cigars during a quiet moment at the station while discussing fatherhood, leadership, and personal growth. He expressed gratitude that such a conversation became their final one.
The Firefighters killed in the Idaho ambush have been identified as Battalion Chief Frank Harwood & Battalion Chief John Morrison
While Engineer Dave Tysdal remains in critical condition
On behalf of a grateful nation thank you.
The country is praying for your families 💛❤️ pic.twitter.com/EC1PRtyPvh
— Patriot 🇺🇸 (@patriotblood47) July 1, 2025
Dave Tysdal, 47, has been part of the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department for 23 years. Fire Chief Greif noted the outpouring of support for Tysdal and his family, highlighting their resilience during this difficult time. The suspect, who was killed during the encounter, was believed to be a 20-year-old man Wess Roley who had deliberately started the fire as a trap, allegedly after being asked to move his vehicle. The investigation into the incident remains ongoing.
Together, the three firefighters had 70 years of combined experience.