A lone gunman deliberately set a wildfire to ambush firefighters in Idaho, killing two brave first responders and wounding another in a calculated act of deadly violence.
Key Takeaways
- An armed suspect intentionally started a wildfire on Canfield Mountain in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho as a trap to ambush responding firefighters
- Two firefighters were killed and one wounded when the gunman opened fire approximately 30 minutes after crews arrived at the scene
- Law enforcement faced continued sniper fire throughout their response, hampering aerial firefighting efforts
- The suspect was later found dead with a firearm nearby after authorities used cell phone data to locate him
- Local and state officials have condemned the attack as a deliberate assault on first responders
Premeditated Ambush Targets Firefighters
In a shocking display of premeditated violence, a gunman set fire to Canfield Mountain in northern Idaho before opening fire on responding emergency personnel. The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office reported that firefighters arrived at the scene around 1:30 p.m. Sunday, only to face gunfire approximately 30 minutes later. The attack left two firefighters dead and another wounded in what authorities have determined was a calculated ambush. Law enforcement officials faced persistent sniper fire throughout their response efforts, creating a dangerous and chaotic scene that prevented aerial firefighting operations from being deployed.
“We do believe that the suspect started the fire, and we do believe that it was an ambush and it was intentional. These firefighters did not have a chance,” said Bob Norris, Kootenai County Sheriff.
Massive Law Enforcement Response
The attack prompted an extensive tactical response involving multiple agencies. After issuing a shelter-in-place order for nearby residents, law enforcement utilized cell phone data to track down the suspect, whose body was later discovered with a firearm nearby. The FBI provided technical and tactical support throughout the operation as authorities worked to neutralize the threat. Even after locating the suspect, crews remained cautious as they continued to address the ongoing fire situation on Canfield Mountain, a popular outdoor recreation area near the Washington border.
The brazen attack created extraordinary danger not only for the firefighters but also for law enforcement personnel attempting to secure the area. The continued sniper fire reported by the sheriff’s office complicated rescue efforts and extended the emergency response into Sunday evening. Tactical teams had to navigate challenging mountain terrain while remaining vigilant against potential gunfire, demonstrating the extreme risks faced by all emergency personnel at the scene.
Officials Condemn “Heinous Direct Assault”
The attack has drawn strong condemnation from state leaders, including President Trump and Idaho Governor Brad Little. The horrific nature of targeting those who risk their lives to protect others has shocked the tight-knit Idaho community. The loss of two firefighters represents not just a tragedy for their families but for the entire first responder community who face unexpected dangers in their mission to protect the public.
“This is a heinous direct assault on our brave firefighters. I ask all Idahoans to pray for them and their families as we wait to learn more,” said Gov. Brad Little.
The Idaho House Republican Leadership echoed the governor’s sentiments, stating: “We are horrified by the murder of two firefighters in Coeur d’Alene, and shocked by such a vicious attack on our first responders. We are praying for them, the injured, their families and their colleagues,” said Coeur d’Alene.
As the community of Coeur d’Alene begins to process this tragedy, questions remain about the suspect’s motives and what could drive someone to target those dedicated to public safety. The deliberate nature of the attack—setting a fire specifically to draw first responders into harm’s way—represents a particularly disturbing tactical approach that has left many searching for answers while mourning the loss of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
