Two Firefighters Killed in Ambush While Responding to Brush Fire in Idaho
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho — Tragedy struck in the picturesque town of Coeur d’Alene on Sunday when two firefighters lost their lives in an unprovoked shooting while responding to a brush fire at Canfield Mountain. The incident marks a grievous assault on first responders, prompting widespread grief and outrage.
Ambush and Fatal Shootings
Local law enforcement reported that the firefighters were attacked shortly after they began battling a blaze around 1:22 PM (20:22 GMT). Gunfire erupted approximately 30 minutes later, as the shooter used high-powered rifles to target emergency personnel. Kootenai County Sheriff Robert Norris stated that the initial findings suggest the fire was intentionally set as an ambush against the first responders.
“The suspect’s actions appear to have been deliberate,” Sheriff Norris confirmed. “We believe he intended to lure firefighters to the scene.” The unidentified suspect was later found deceased at the scene, with a firearm recovered nearby. It is still unclear how he died, and authorities have yet to disclose the type of weapon involved.
Emergency Response and Current Status
In light of the shooting, a shelter-in-place order was issued for the surrounding area, which was lifted late Sunday night after law enforcement secured the scene. A third firefighter was reported to be in critical condition following surgery and is currently fighting for his life.
More than 300 law enforcement officers and FBI agents responded to the incident, conducting a thorough sweep of the area, involving police snipers and helicopters. Video footage captured the frantic scene, showing emergency vehicles converging on local hospitals as smoke billowed from the forested hillsides.
Victims Honored and Community Response
The identities of the fallen firefighters have not been released out of respect for their families, but one was affiliated with the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department and the other with Kootenai County Fire and Rescue. Idaho Governor Brad Little expressed his condolences, calling the incident a “heinous direct assault” on the brave men and women who serve the community. He urged residents to support the families of the victims during this difficult time.
“No words can fully convey the heartbreak we feel for the families of these heroes,” Governor Little stated.
Investigation Ongoing
The investigation remains active, with authorities working meticulously to piece together the events leading up to this horrific act. As residents grapple with the aftermath of this tragedy, the community is preparing to honor the fallen firefighters in a ceremonial procession to Spokane, Washington.
The wildfire, meanwhile, has charred approximately 20 acres but caused no structural losses. Fire containment efforts are ongoing, with officials confirming that the flames were still active early Monday morning.
As the community comes to terms with this shocking loss, all eyes remain on the investigation into the motives behind this attack, hoping for clarity and justice in the days ahead.
Focuses on crime, public safety, and regional events.
Bio: Marcus is a community-based journalist passionate about reporting impactful stories that matter most to readers.