Two firefighters were tragically killed and another was seriously injured after they were ambushed by a gunman while responding to a wildfire in the Canfield Mountain area near Coeur d'Alene on Sunday, June 29, 2025. Authorities are calling the incident a calculated and "heinous" attack.
The fallen firefighters have been identified as one from the Coeur d'Alene Fire Department and another from Kootenai County Fire and Rescue. A third firefighter was wounded and is reported to be in stable condition after undergoing surgery.
According to the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office, the firefighters were responding to a report of a brush fire when they were met with a barrage of gunfire. The shooting is believed to have been an intentional act to lure first responders into a deadly trap.
"This was a total ambush," Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris stated in a press conference. "These firefighters did not have a chance."
Following an extensive manhunt involving multiple law enforcement agencies, the suspected shooter was later found deceased on Canfield Mountain with a firearm nearby. The suspect's identity has not yet been officially released pending further investigation.
Idaho Governor Brad Little condemned the attack in a statement, calling it a "heinous direct assault on our brave firefighters." He has asked for prayers for the victims and their families.
The wildfire, which authorities believe was intentionally set by the suspect, continued to burn as firefighting efforts were hampered by the active shooter situation.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with local and federal authorities, including the FBI, working to piece together the events that led to this tragic loss of life. The communities of Coeur d'Alene and Kootenai County are mourning the loss of the two dedicated public servants.
