A devastating tragedy has rocked the tight-knit community of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, as local fire officials have now publicly identified the two firefighters who lost their lives in what authorities are calling an “unprovoked ambush shooting.” The shocking incident has left the city grieving and searching for answers about how such violence could strike those sworn to protect and serve during emergencies.
According to Coeur d’Alene Fire Department Chief Kenny Gabriel, the two firefighters killed in the line of duty were identified as 38-year-old Captain James “Jim” Kessler and 27-year-old firefighter-paramedic Ethan Mills. Both men were respected and beloved members of the department who dedicated their lives to protecting the lives and property of others.
The shooting occurred late Sunday evening when crews responded to what was initially reported as a residential fire call in a quiet suburban neighborhood on the city’s northern edge. When firefighters arrived on scene, they found no visible flames but decided to investigate further due to a reported smell of smoke. That’s when, according to authorities, gunfire erupted from inside the residence.
Investigators say the suspect, now identified as 20-year-old Wess Roley, opened fire on the firefighters without warning. “This was an ambush in every sense of the word,” Chief Gabriel said during a press briefing Monday morning, his voice breaking with emotion. “Our men did not even have a chance to defend themselves. They were doing their jobs. They were there to help.”
Captain Kessler and firefighter Mills were both struck by gunfire and died at the scene despite desperate lifesaving attempts by their fellow firefighters and responding paramedics. Two other firefighters were able to retreat to safety and radio for police backup, which led to a tense standoff lasting several hours through the night.
Roley was later found deceased inside the home from what authorities believe was a self-inflicted gunshot wound. So far, investigators have not disclosed a possible motive but are combing through Roley’s social media activity, phone records, and interviews with acquaintances to determine why he lured firefighters to the scene only to kill them.
“This wasn’t just an attack on two brave men,” said Mayor Jim Hammond during a citywide vigil held late Monday. “It was an attack on our entire community, on the very people we trust to run toward danger when the rest of us run away. We are heartbroken and angry — but above all, we stand together.”
Both Kessler and Mills had deep roots in the region. Captain Kessler, a 15-year veteran of the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department, leaves behind a wife and two young children. Firefighter Mills had recently celebrated his third anniversary with the department and was engaged to be married next spring.
As news of the tragedy spread, fire departments across Idaho and neighboring states lowered their flags to half-staff and sent condolence messages to Coeur d’Alene’s first responders. Community members have also created makeshift memorials outside Fire Station No. 2, where both men were assigned. Flowers, handwritten notes, and stuffed animals now line the sidewalk, a testament to the impact these men had on countless lives.
Governor Brad Little issued a statement Monday afternoon expressing his condolences to the families and pledging full support for the ongoing investigation. “Idaho mourns with the families of Captain Kessler and Firefighter Mills,” the statement read. “We will not rest until we have a clear understanding of how this horrific crime happened and what we can do to protect our first responders going forward.”
Meanwhile, local residents are rallying behind the families with fundraisers and donations pouring in to assist with funeral costs and other expenses. A candlelight vigil is scheduled for this weekend at the city park, where hundreds are expected to gather to honor the fallen heroes.
As Coeur d’Alene begins the difficult process of healing, one thing is certain — the memory of Captain James Kessler and Firefighter Ethan Mills will live on in the hearts of those they served and protected. Their sacrifice stands as a somber reminder of the dangers faced by first responders every day, even in the most unexpected places.
For now, the community holds its breath for answers, hoping that justice, even if only in the form of understanding, will come soon. And through the grief, one message echoes clear: these men will not be forgotten.
