So much for the internet know-it-alls and the BS theories.

SUSPECT IDENTIFIED IN CANFIELD MOUNTAIN SHOOTING: WESS VAL ROLEY
Authorities have identified the suspect in the deadly ambush on Canfield Mountain as Wess Val Roley, who the Kootenai County Sheriff described as a transient living in the area.

State records confirm a black 2000 Ford Ranger registered to Roley at an address on Alder Street in Sandpoint, Idaho.

According to the Sheriff, Roley had at one point expressed interest in becoming a firefighter, though it’s unclear if he ever applied or worked in the profession.

Investigators have now confirmed that Wess Val Roley intentionally started the wildfire. He was found with fire-starting materials on his person.

When fire crews first arrived to battle the wildfire, there was an interaction between Roley and the firefighters, reportedly related to the location of his vehicle. It’s unknown how much time passed between that exchange and the shooting that followed.

During the manhunt, deputies pushed Roley’s vehicle down a hillside to prevent it from being used, and disabled fire department vehicles on scene.

Authorities confirmed Roley was armed with at least one shotgun. It has not been confirmed whether he had other firearms.

The Kootenai County Sheriff expressed strong concern and aggravation over individuals and media outlets immediately posting scanner audio of crews calling for help, calling it harmful to the families, first responders, and the ongoing investigation.

Meanwhile, fire crews have been aggressively attacking the wildfire on Canfield Mountain throughout the day with multiple aircraft and ground resources, and officials say they expect to have a containment line around it by nightfall.
We will continue to provide official updates as they are made available.
#NorthIdahoNews


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