Idaho Firefighter Ambush: 2 First Responders Killed in Shocking Attack

Idaho Firefighter Ambush Leaves Two Dead: Coeur d’Alene Community in Mourning

The Idaho firefighter ambush near Canfield Mountain has left a small and close-knit community grieving the tragic loss of two brave first responders. The incident, which unfolded on Sunday afternoon, has shocked residents of Coeur d’Alene and raised serious concerns about the safety of emergency personnel.

Deadly Idaho Firefighter Ambush Sparks Outpouring of Grief

On June 29, two firefighters were fatally shot during what officials have described as a planned Idaho firefighter ambush. A third firefighter, critically injured, was rushed into surgery and remains in stable condition, fighting for his life. The attack occurred when firefighters responded to a reported brush fire on Canfield Mountain in northern Idaho, only to become the targets of a gunman.

The incident began around 1:30 p.m. when emergency teams were dispatched to a wildfire. By 2:00 p.m., firefighters on the scene radioed in a chilling message — they were under fire.

Gunman Allegedly Set Fire to Lure First Responders

Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris revealed in a press briefing that authorities believe the shooter intentionally ignited the fire as a pretext to launch the Idaho firefighter ambush. “It was absolutely intentional,” Norris confirmed, calling it a sniper-style attack. The ambush left the responding firefighters with no chance to defend themselves, officials said.

The wildfire, later named the Nettleton Gulch Fire, grew rapidly, scorching 15 to 20 acres of forested land. Fire suppression efforts were severely delayed due to the threat of continued gunfire.

Suspect Found Dead After Intense Law Enforcement Operation

A massive multi-agency response followed the attack, involving more than 300 officers, including local police, the FBI, and the Idaho National Guard. The gunman was located hours later, tracked via his cellphone signal, and found dead on Canfield Mountain with a weapon nearby. While law enforcement officials have not confirmed the cause of death, they believe he acted alone.

Retired FBI agent Steve Moore praised the swift resolution of the incident. “They neutralized the threat within 90 minutes, which is incredibly fast under such dangerous circumstances,” he said. Authorities are still investigating whether the shooter died by suicide or was killed during the confrontation.

Idaho Firefighter Ambush Leaves Deep Wound in Local Community

Residents of Coeur d’Alene gathered on Sunday evening along the highway, forming a solemn procession as the bodies of the fallen firefighters were transported from Kootenai Health to Spokane, Washington. Many waved American flags, stood in silence, and embraced one another as the tragic event hit close to home.

Bill Buley, assistant editor at the Coeur d’Alene Press, described the community’s reaction as deeply emotional. “Even after the procession ended, people kept coming out. It was very moving,” Buley said.

Kootenai County Commissioner Bruce Mattare echoed the sentiment, saying, “This is not who we are as a community. The loss is tragic beyond words.” He emphasized the professionalism and dedication of the fallen firefighters and commended the sheriff’s department for its swift action.

Investigation into Idaho Firefighter Ambush Continues

Authorities are now focused on piecing together the suspect’s background and motive. Former FBI Special Agent Jason Pack explained that investigators will attempt to build a profile of the shooter, including affiliations and psychological state, to understand why the Idaho firefighter ambush occurred.

“Search warrants will likely be served, and authorities will begin working backwards to answer the most critical question: why?” Pack told CNN.

Meanwhile, officials are withholding the names of the deceased firefighters out of respect for their families, who are receiving grief support.

Firefighting Efforts Resume After Gunfire Ceases

With the suspect confirmed dead and the area secured, firefighting teams resumed efforts to contain the Nettleton Gulch Fire. The Idaho Department of Lands reported that terrain challenges, steep slopes, and dense forest have complicated firefighting logistics. Crews have now deployed aircraft, engines, and water tankers to battle the blaze, which continues to burn.

Officials warned residents to remain alert in case evacuation becomes necessary. Though the immediate danger from the shooter has passed, the fire remains a significant threat to surrounding areas.

Governor Condemns Attack, Urges Prayers for First Responders

Idaho Governor Brad Little addressed the tragedy on X (formerly Twitter), calling the ambush a “heinous direct assault on our brave firefighters.” He urged all Idahoans to pray for the victims and their families and emphasized the importance of allowing law enforcement and firefighters to do their jobs safely.

“This is a heartbreaking day for Idaho,” Little said. “These heroes were simply doing their duty—protecting lives and land—when they were senselessly attacked.”

A Reminder of the Risks Faced by First Responders

The Idaho firefighter ambush is a grim reminder of the dangers emergency personnel face—even in rural communities. Firefighters and law enforcement officers routinely put their lives on the line to protect others, but the intentional targeting of responders is a rare and deeply disturbing occurrence.

As the Coeur d’Alene community grieves, many are left asking how such a tragedy could happen in a quiet part of the state known for its safety and natural beauty. The investigation continues, but the emotional scars will remain long after the fire is extinguished.

Read more: Waaree Energies US Solar Contract