An armoured police vehicle travels towards an area where multiple firefighters were attacked when responding to a fire in the Canfield Mountain area outside Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, US on June 29, 2025 — Photo via Reuters
Two Firefighters Killed in Idaho Ambush; Gunman Still at Large Amid Ongoing Standoff
Two firefighters were shot and killed while responding to a wildfire near Canfield Mountain in northern Idaho, and law enforcement continues to face sniper fire as they search for one or more gunmen, Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris said Sunday.
The shooting took place near Coeur d'Alene, about 260 miles east of Seattle, in a wooded area popular with hikers. Sheriff Norris urged the public to stay away, warning that the suspect—or suspects—remain active and dangerous.
“We are prepared to neutralize this suspect who is actively targeting public safety personnel,” Norris told reporters. He added that civilians might be trapped in the area and that some may have been caught in the crossfire.
The assailants are believed to be using high-powered rifles and firing from concealed positions in dense brush. Shots were reported from multiple directions, strongly suggesting the involvement of more than one gunman. “These individuals are well-prepared, blending into the surroundings, and showing no signs of surrender,” Norris said.
Law enforcement suspects the fire may have been deliberately set to lure first responders into an ambush, according to Lt. Jeff Howard of the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office.
"If these individuals are not neutralized quickly, this could become a prolonged, multi-day operation," Norris warned.
Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem has been briefed on the situation, and the FBI is on-site assisting with tactical teams and technical support. “It remains an active and very dangerous scene,” FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino posted on X.
Video from the area shows thick smoke rising from the forested hills, emergency crews on the move, and ambulances arriving at nearby medical facilities.
Firefighters received the first call around 1:21 p.m. local time. Less than an hour later, reports surfaced that responders were under fire.
“This is a heinous and deliberate attack on our brave firefighters,” said Idaho Governor Brad Little in a statement on X. “Please keep them and their families in your prayers.”
He urged residents to avoid the area and allow emergency personnel to respond safely.
The incident highlights the ongoing issue of gun violence in the U.S., where firearm ownership is protected under the Constitution. In 2023, gun-related homicides in the country totaled 17,927, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.