On June 29, 2025, a horrific incident unfolded in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, where firefighters shot in Idaho became the center of a tragic story. Responding to a brush fire on Canfield Mountain, multiple firefighters faced a deadly ambush. Authorities confirmed that a gunman, believed to have intentionally set the fire, opened fire on first responders, killing two firefighters and wounding another. The suspect was later found dead, bringing a somber close to an hours-long ordeal. This devastating attack has left the community reeling and sparked nationwide outrage over the targeting of heroic first responders.
Details of the Idaho Firefighters Ambush
The incident began around 1:21 p.m. local time when firefighters responded to a half-acre blaze near East Nettleton Gulch Road. By 2:00 p.m., reports of gunfire emerged, with first responders making desperate radio calls: “Everybody’s shot up here!” The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office, led by Sheriff Bob Norris, confirmed the fire was deliberately set to lure firefighters into a trap. The shooter, armed with a high-powered rifle, fired from multiple directions, creating chaos. Two firefighters died, and a third, after undergoing surgery, was reported stable by Sunday night. Law enforcement, including SWAT teams and the FBI, swarmed the area, eventually locating the deceased suspect with a firearm nearby.
Key Points Summary:
- Two firefighters killed, one injured in Coeur d’Alene ambush.
- Fire intentionally set to lure first responders.
- Suspect found dead; believed to have acted alone.
- Incident occurred on Canfield Mountain, June 29, 2025.
Community and Official Response
Idaho Governor Brad Little called the attack “heinous” on social media, urging residents to pray for the victims’ families. A procession from Kootenai Health to Spokane honored the fallen firefighters, with community members gathering on overpasses to pay respects. The International Association of Firefighters condemned the violence, emphasizing the bravery of those targeted. Sheriff Norris noted the suspect’s cell phone aided in tracking him, resolving the standoff within hours. The incident has renewed discussions about the safety of first responders, with officials vowing to investigate thoroughly.
Ongoing Impact and Investigation
The tragedy of firefighters shot in Idaho has sent shockwaves beyond Coeur d’Alene, a city of 55,000 near Washington’s border. Canfield Mountain, a popular hiking spot, remains under scrutiny as the fire continues to burn, though the shelter-in-place order was lifted by Sunday evening. Authorities are exploring motives, with early indications suggesting the suspect acted alone. The wounded firefighter’s recovery offers a glimmer of hope amid the grief. Community vigils and tributes are planned, reflecting the deep loss felt by residents and first responders nationwide.
Stay informed about this developing story and honor the bravery of our firefighters by following local news updates and supporting first responder initiatives in your community.