Tragic Shooting Incident Involving Idaho Firefighters

On Sunday, shortly after 1:20 PM, fire crews responded to reports of a brush fire in Canfield Mountain Forest, near Coeur d’Alene. About 40 minutes later, a firefighter communicated over the radio that shots had been fired.

“These firefighters didn’t have a chance,” stated Sheriff Robert Norris, who noted that the responder had encountered sniper fire. He indicated uncertainty regarding the number of shooters, estimating, “I don’t know if there are 1, 2, 3, or 4.”

In a panicked message dispatched via radio, a first responder reported, “Everyone’s been shot here… Send law enforcement now.”

In response, over 300 law enforcement personnel and the FBI were deployed to the scene. Reports indicate a grim situation developed rapidly.

Sadly, two firefighters lost their lives, while a third sustained injuries. Sheriff Norris explained that the sniper was positioned in rugged terrain and seemed to be armed with a high-powered rifle, necessitating a directive for the officers to return fire.

Authorities later confirmed the discovery of a deceased individual believed to be the shooter, found in close proximity to the site with a weapon. As the situation unfolded, it was unclear how the suspect had perished.

There’s a growing belief among officials that the shooter intentionally ignited the fire to draw firefighters into the area.

Norris characterized the event as a deliberate ambush, emphasizing the lack of opportunity for the firefighters. He confirmed that the shooter acted alone, although no details about their identity were shared, and it remains undisclosed what kind of firearms were recovered from the scene.

Tragically, one of the deceased firefighters was from the Coeur d’Alene Fire Station, while the other served in Cootenai County. The surviving firefighter is reportedly in stable condition following surgery, though still “fighting for his life,” according to Norris.

As the evening progressed, the bodies of the fallen firefighters were brought back, escorted by a procession of both fire and law enforcement vehicles. Firefighters and local community members paid their respects as the procession passed.

Idaho’s Governor Brad Little expressed his condolences, stating on social media, “Today, multiple heroic firefighters have been attacked in response to the Idaho fire. This is a vicious, direct attack on our brave firefighters.”

He urged the public to keep the firefighters and their families in their thoughts as the situation developed, calling for patience from the community.

Attorney General Pam Bondy also conveyed gratitude towards the FBI agents aiding local law enforcement, adding, “We pray for everyone involved.”

As of late Sunday night, the shelter orders put in place were officially lifted.