Two firefighters in Idaho were tragically killed during an ambush while responding to a grass fire on Sunday. The incident occurred at Canfield Mountain in northern Idaho, where the suspect is believed to have intentionally set the fire before opening fire on the firefighters. A third firefighter was seriously injured and is currently fighting for his life.
The Kootenai County Sheriff, Bob Norris, reported that the suspect was found dead at the scene with a gunshot wound. Law enforcement tracked him using his cell phone, which had been activated in the area since around 3:16 p.m. When they located the signal, they discovered the suspect’s body along with a weapon nearby.
Sheriff Norris explained that federal resources, including helicopters, assisted in pinpointing the suspect’s location. He emphasized that the attack was a planned ambush, stating, "These firefighters did not have a chance." The identities of the two fallen firefighters, who were from the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department and Kootenai County Fire and Rescue, have not yet been released to allow time for their families to be notified.
At the height of the situation, over 300 law enforcement officers, including FBI agents, were present. There was a brief exchange of gunfire between the suspect and law enforcement, but it remains unclear whether the suspect died from a self-inflicted wound or from police fire. Investigators believe there was only one shooter and that there is no ongoing threat to the community.
Sheriff Norris expressed gratitude for the support from various officials, including the White House and Idaho’s Governor Brad Little. Governor Little condemned the attack as a "heinous direct assault" on firefighters and urged Idahoans to pray for the victims and their families. The community is reeling from this shocking event as they await more information.