Tragic Ambush Claims Lives of Two Firefighters in Idaho
In a devastating incident, two firefighters lost their lives and another was injured when a gunman opened fire on emergency responders in a calculated ambush in Idaho. This horrific attack unfolded after the firefighters arrived to respond to a fire at Canfield Mountain, situated just north of Coeur d’Alene, on a Sunday afternoon.
Details of the Incident
According to law enforcement officials, the assailant, who acted alone, targeted the first responders in a series of attacks that lasted for several hours. Sheriff Bob Norris remarked, “This was a total ambush. These firefighters did not have a chance.” More than 300 law enforcement officers, including special SWAT teams and helicopters, were deployed to the area to assist and respond to the emergency.
The fire, initially reported around 1:21 PM PST, rapidly expanded to cover 20 acres, causing significant concern as it continued to burn into the night. Authorities confirmed that the shooter used a high-powered sporting rifle, engaging in sniper-style fire against the personnel attending to the blaze.
Casualties and Response
During the ambush, a firefighter from Coeur d’Alene and another from Kootenai County Fire and Rescue tragically lost their lives, while a third firefighter remains hospitalized but in stable condition. Their identities have not yet been disclosed.
Notably, the law enforcement response included a dynamic search involving high-tech tools such as heat-seeking helicopter technology. However, the progress was hampered by the ongoing wildfire. Investigators indicated that the gunman may have managed to hide firearms at various locations during the incident, leading to a complicated search.
As efforts were made to control the situation, a shelter-in-place order was issued and later lifted around seven hours into the operation. Sheriff Norris noted that the investigation remains in its early stages, with the motive behind the shooting currently unknown.
Community Reaction
The tragic event has left the community of Coeur d’Alene, a city with a population of approximately 56,000, in shock. Edward Kelly, president of the International Association of Fire Fighters union, expressed his heartbreak on social media, labeling the attack as a “heinous act of violence.”
Local fire chief Pat Riley echoed those sentiments, stating, “I am heartbroken by the attack.” Residents are grappling with the fear and sadness wrought by this unexpected violence, with 80-year-old Linda Tiger admitting, “This has never happened here… But it goes to show that no one is safe from this kind of mental sadness.”
Investigation Progress
While authorities have confirmed the shooter’s death—the circumstances of which are still being investigated—more weapons are expected to be uncovered as the fire is controlled and emergency personnel can access the area safely. Investigators have ruled out the possibility of multiple shooters, determining that there was initially a belief that there could have been up to four suspects.
Casualty Details
| Title | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Type | Ambush shooting |
| Number of Firefighters Affected | 3 (2 deceased, 1 injured) |
| Time of Fire Report | 1:21 PM PST |
| Area | Canfield Mountain, Idaho |
| Estimated Fire Size | 20 acres |
The investigation continues as local authorities seek to uncover further details surrounding this tragic incident, with community members reflecting on the shocking nature of violence occurring in their normally peaceful town.
