A brush fire response in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, turned into a fatal attack on Sunday when firefighters were ambushed by a gunman. Two were killed, and several others injured in what authorities have labeled a deliberate, heinous assault on first responders. The incident raises urgent questions about intentional targeting and the safety of emergency personnel.
The attack began when firefighters responded to a wildfire on Canfield Mountain at approximately 2:00 p.m. local time. Roughly 30 minutes later, they came under sniper fire from an unknown location in the woods. Authorities are investigating whether the blaze was set intentionally to lure first responders to the scene.
In a press briefing, Kootenai County Sheriff Robert Norris confirmed two fatalities and acknowledged several others may be wounded; the full number remains unknown. Civilians attempting to evacuate the area also faced danger, as flames spread and the shooter remained active. Police imposed a shelter-in-place order near the Canfield Mountain Trailhead while conducting a manhunt for the shooter.
Authorities are coordinating a multi-agency response. The FBI has joined Kootenai County law enforcement, with a police helicopter canvassing the mountainous terrain for the assailant. Idaho Governor Brad Little condemned the attack as “heinous” and called for public prayers for the injured firefighters and their families. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has also been briefed on the incident.
This event is an alarming escalation against those who serve the public. Emergency responders face increasing danger—especially when fires may be used as bait in targeted violent acts. The breakdown of trust and respect toward first responders threatens local safety and community confidence.
Idaho residents and those using recreational trails nearby are urged to remain vigilant and heed official instructions. Until the suspect is in custody, the area remains an active crime scene. Authorities emphasize that public cooperation and rapid reporting may be the key to bringing the shooter to justice.
