Two firefighters were shot and killed, and a third was critically injured, in what authorities believe was a calculated ambush on Saturday afternoon. Investigators say the suspect intentionally started a wildfire on Canfield Mountain to lure first responders to the scene.
Emergency crews arrived around 1:30 p.m. to tackle a brush fire when they were unexpectedly targeted by gunfire. Roughly 30 minutes later, the shooter opened fire, prompting a massive law enforcement response that included local police, SWAT units, federal agents, and air support.
Authorities used cellphone tracking to locate the suspected gunman at approximately 3:15 p.m., where he was found dead near a weapon and close to the fire’s edge. Officials say the suspect appeared to have acted alone, though the investigation remains ongoing.
The two deceased firefighters served with Coeur d’Alene Fire Department and Kootenai County Fire and Rescue. A third firefighter underwent surgery and is reported to be in critical but stable condition.
Governor Brad Little condemned the attack, calling it a “heinous act” and expressing deep sorrow for the families of those lost. Investigators are working to determine the gunman’s motive, the exact cause of his death, and whether any other weapons were involved.
This tragic event has shocked the local community and raised new concerns about the safety of first responders during emergency calls.
