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In the wake of a deadly ambush that claimed the lives of two firefighters and seriously injured another near Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, Bishop Peter F. Christensen of the Diocese of Boise shared a heartfelt statement via email with CatholicVote July 1.
In it, he expresses grief, solidarity, and a call to reject violence.
“The Catholic Diocese of Boise is heartbroken by the tragic and horrific ambush that claimed the lives of two brave firefighters and left another seriously injured while they responded to a brush fire on Canfield Mountain near Coeur d’Alene. This senseless act of violence against those who selflessly serve our community is a profound loss that wounds us all.”
The firefighters were responding to a June 29 brush fire on Canfield Mountain when they were targeted in what officials are calling an ambush. The suspect’s body was later identified as Wess Roley.
The bishop emphasized the Christian duty to uphold the dignity of human life and offered prayers for the victims.
“Today, we mourn the fallen firefighters, whose courage and sacrifice reflect the love and service taught by Christ,” he said, extending condolences to the victims’ families, first responders, and the broader Coeur d’Alene and Kootenai County communities.
Bishop Christensen also expressed gratitude for the law enforcement officers and emergency personnel who responded to the incident, praising their “bravery in the face of danger” as a “testament to the strength of the human spirit, guided by a commitment to the common good.”
Quoting Matthew 5:4 — “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted” — the bishop urged Idahoans to come together in prayer and to commit themselves to building a society “rooted in respect, compassion, and justice.”
The full statement can be read here.
