Key Point Summary – Firefighter Sniper Attack
- Two firefighters were killed in an Idaho ambush
- Gunfire erupted as crews battled a wildfire
- Governor calls it a heinous assault
- No arrests have been made so far
- FBI tactical teams deployed to the scene
- The blaze remains unchecked due to sniper threat
- Shock and mourning sweep through Idaho
Deadly Blaze Turns Into Ambush
What started as a routine emergency call became a nightmare. Two firefighters lost their lives Sunday in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, after gunfire erupted on Canfield Mountain.
Around 1:30 p.m., fire crews responded to a blaze in the rugged area. Just 30 minutes later, the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office received alarming reports: gunshots were echoing through the hills.
Chaos On The Mountain
According to Sheriff Bob Norris, the scene rapidly spiraled out of control. Deputies and emergency crews took cover as sniper fire rained down on them.
“We don’t know how many suspects are up there,” the sheriff told reporters, visibly shaken. “We don’t know how many casualties there are either.”
Meanwhile, residents and hikers scrambled off the mountain. Authorities confirmed that others might still be trapped or injured in the danger zone.
Governor Condemns ‘Heinous’ Attack
In an emotional statement, Governor Brad Little called the ambush a “heinous direct assault on our brave firefighters.”
He urged Idahoans to pray for the victims and their families. His message, shared widely on social media, reflected the state’s horror and heartbreak.
Sheriff Norris revealed that deputies had been authorized to return fire. “I’m hoping someone has a clear shot and can neutralize the threat,” he said. “This isn’t someone looking to surrender.”
Blaze Still Raging As Crews Retreat
While the sniper threat loomed, the fire itself kept spreading. Authorities couldn’t send in more crews to contain the blaze.
“It’s going to keep burning,” Norris admitted grimly. “Can’t put any resources on it right now.”
An alert from Kootenai County Emergency Management warned the public to stay away from Canfield Mountain Trailhead and Nettleton Gulch Road.
FBI And Tactical Teams Respond
Federal reinforcements arrived swiftly. The FBI deployed both technical specialists and tactical units to assist in the response.
Deputy Director Dan Bongino confirmed on X (formerly Twitter), “It remains an active, and very dangerous scene.”
Community Grieves For Fallen Heroes
Public reaction was swift and emotional. The Idaho House Republican Leadership issued a joint statement: “We are horrified by the murder of two firefighters in Coeur d’Alene.”
Prayers poured in from across the state, while vigils and support groups mobilized for the victims’ families. The community, bound by tragedy, demanded justice.
Coeur d’Alene, home to roughly 55,000 people, is known for its quiet beauty and outdoor recreation. However, this shocking act has shattered its peace.
Search Continues For Suspects
Law enforcement remains on high alert. As of Monday morning, no arrests had been made. The suspect, or suspects, are believed to have used high-powered rifles.
Officials say the shooter likely used the wooded terrain for cover, creating a near-impossible challenge for responding officers.
The trails on Canfield Mountain—usually teeming with hikers—are now silent. Police have shut down access, fearing the sniper could still be hiding in the thick brush.
A City In Mourning, A Nation In Shock
Across social media, tributes flooded in. Citizens shared memories of local firefighters and expressed rage at the senseless attack.
“This was a warzone, not a wildfire,” one resident wrote. Others urged state and federal leaders to act swiftly.
As investigations continue, questions multiply. Who planned this? Why target firefighters? And will anyone be brought to justice?
For now, Coeur d’Alene—and all of Idaho—waits, grieves, and hopes for answers.
