Multiple Firefighters Killed in Ambush While Responding to Brush Fire in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho – An active shooter ambushed firefighters responding to a brush fire on Canfield Mountain near Coeur d’Alene on Sunday, resulting in the deaths of at least two firefighters and injuring several others, according to local authorities. Law enforcement officials confirmed that the suspect, believed to be armed with high-powered rifles, remains at large, and ongoing gunfire has been reported in the area.

The incident began shortly after 1:30 p.m. when emergency crews responded to reports of a brush fire near East Nettleton Gulch Road. Within half an hour, firefighters came under sniper fire from an unknown assailant in the woods. Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris stated that it is not yet clear whether there is a single suspect or multiple shooters, but authorities believe the fire may have been intentionally set to lure first responders into an ambush.

More than 65 emergency vehicles, including SWAT teams and helicopters, converged on the scene as law enforcement launched a full-scale manhunt. Fire suppression efforts were halted for safety, and a shelter-in-place order was issued for the area south of Hayden Lake Road and east of 15th Street. Residents have been strongly urged to avoid the area as the situation remains active and dangerous.

Governor Brad Little condemned the attack, calling it "a heinous direct assault on our brave firefighters," and asked Idahoans to pray for the victims and their families. The FBI has deployed tactical teams to assist local law enforcement in the ongoing response and investigation.

Authorities have scheduled a press conference for 9:30 p.m. PDT to provide further updates as the manhunt and investigation continue.