Coeur d’Alene, Idaho – A horrific act of violence has unfolded in northwest Idaho, where two firefighters were killed, and another was critically injured during an ambush while responding to a brush fire on Sunday, June 29, 2025.
The incident, described as a “heinous act” by local authorities, has left the community in shock.
Tragic Events Unfold on Canfield Mountain
The tragic sequence of events began when firefighters were dispatched to a brush fire on Canfield Mountain, located near Coeur d’Alene, at 1:21 p.m. local time.
The fire, which had grown to around 20 acres overnight, was initially thought to be a routine response. However, by 2 p.m., the firefighters reported they were under fire.
Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris confirmed that the firefighters were ambushed by a lone gunman who allegedly started the fire and intentionally targeted the responders. “This was a total ambush. These firefighters did not have a chance,” Norris said during a press conference.
Gunfire Exchange and Suspect’s Death
Authorities say the unidentified suspect was later found dead on Canfield Mountain with a gun nearby. Officers engaged in an exchange of gunfire with the suspect, though it remains unclear if police were responsible for his death.
The exact motive behind the shooting remains unknown at this time.
Idaho State Police have launched an investigation into the exchange of gunfire, while the local coroner will examine the causes of death for both the suspect and the firefighters.
Victims and Community Reactions
The two fallen firefighters were identified as members of the Coeur D’Alene Fire Department and Kootenai County Fire and Rescue.
Both died while en route to the Kootenai Health campus in Coeur d’Alene. One firefighter was pronounced dead shortly after being transported, while the second passed away from injuries during the journey to the hospital. The third firefighter, who was critically injured, remains in stable but serious condition.
Bruce Mattare, the chairman of the Kootenai County Board of Commissioners, spoke emotionally about the loss: “June 29, 2025, is a day that we will not forget in this community.
It is the day evil showed his face, and we lost two outstanding professionals of the highest quality.”
The loss has left the community in disbelief, as such senseless violence is unprecedented for the area. Edward A. Kelly, general president of the International Association of Fire Fighters, called the incident “a heinous act of violence” and confirmed that the firefighters were killed by a sniper.
Law Enforcement Response
Approximately 300 law enforcement officers, including local and federal agencies, were involved in the search for the suspect.
A shelter-in-place order was briefly issued in the area, fueled by concerns that a second shooter might be at large. The order was later lifted when authorities confirmed that only one suspect was involved.
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Honor for the Fallen
In a show of respect and solidarity, emergency services participated in a procession of vehicles to honor the firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty.
This devastating attack has shocked the Coeur d’Alene community and raised critical questions about the motives behind such a heinous act. Investigations are ongoing, with authorities working tirelessly to provide answers.
What are your thoughts on this tragic event? Do you believe that enough is being done to protect first responders? Share your thoughts and reactions in the comments below.
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