Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Coeur d'Alene Firefighters Ambushed: Community Honors Fallen Heroes

7/2/2025

50 10

Summary

Story summary

In a tragic incident in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, Battalion Chiefs Frank Harwood and John Morrison lost their lives in an ambush while bravely battling a brush fire ignited by 20-year-old Wess Roley. Fellow firefighter David Tysdal remains in critical condition. The community came together to honor these fallen heroes in a heartfelt procession on Tuesday.

History

Historical Context

The Great Fire of 1910 devastated over three million acres in Idaho and Montana, prompting the U.S. Forest Service, led by Gifford Pinchot, to adopt stricter firefighting policies. This historical context highlights the ongoing dangers firefighters face, as exemplified by the recent ambush of Battalion Chiefs Frank Harwood and John Morrison while battling a brush fire, underscoring the need for improved safety measures.

1 of 2

Story summary

In a tragic incident in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, Battalion Chiefs Frank Harwood and John Morrison lost their lives in an ambush while bravely battling a brush fire ignited by 20-year-old Wess Roley. Fellow firefighter David Tysdal remains in critical condition. The community came together to honor these fallen heroes in a heartfelt procession on Tuesday.

1 / 2