Idaho Firefighters Killed in Ambush Near Wildfire Scene
Idaho firefighters killed in ambush near wildfire scene — this devastating incident unfolded on Canfield Mountain in North Idaho, where two firefighters lost their lives after being shot while battling a brush fire on Saturday, June 29, 2025. Investigators believe the fire was deliberately set to lure first responders into a targeted attack.
A suspect, thought to be the shooter, was also found dead with a gun, in what is believed to have possibly been a suicide. The scene is now secure, although the wildfire continues to burn.
Timeline of Events: Fire Call Turns into Deadly Attack
Firefighters from the Northern Lakes Fire District responded to what appeared to be a routine brush fire call in the East Nettleton Gulch Road area, east of downtown Coeur d’Alene.
Shortly after they got there, they were shot at by a sniper from an elevated position. The gunman likely initiated the fire as a trap and then waited for first responders to arrive before shooting, Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris indicated.
“We believe the fire was intentionally started to lure first responders into the area,” said Sheriff Norris.
Casualties Confirmed: Two Firefighters Killed, One Hospitalized
The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) later confirmed via their official X (formerly Twitter) account that two firefighters were killed, and a third remains in surgery after being critically wounded in the attack.
“Today, two of our IAFF brothers were shot and killed by a sniper while battling a fire in Coeur d’Alene in a senseless act of violence. A third remains in surgery,” the IAFF wrote. “Please keep their families and fellow first responders in your prayers.”
The names of the victims have not yet been released as authorities are still notifying the families.
Gunman Found Dead on Canfield Mountain
Around 7:45 p.m., SWAT units from surrounding jurisdictions discovered a deceased male near the area on Canfield Mountain with a firearm next to him. Although authorities have not identified him yet, they believe that he was the lone gunman responsible for the earlier ambush.
Authorities will be holding a full press conference at 9:30 p.m. PDT to provide additional updates.
Earlier this evening, officials instructed residents in the area to shelter in place. They have lifted the order, now that the immediate threat has passed. The wildfire continues to burn, and emergency management officials request residents to stay alert in the event that evacuation orders become necessary.
State and Local Leaders React: “This Was an Attack on Heroes”
Governor Brad Little issued a statement on his official Facebook page, expressing deep sorrow over the loss:
“Today, multiple heroic firefighters were ambushed while extinguishing a fire in North Idaho. This is a despicable, direct attack on our brave first responders. Teresa and I are devastated. We are asking all Idahoans to pray for the victims and their families.“
Locally, Northern Lakes Fire District Chief Pat Riley said the incident hit close to home:
“My first reaction was heartbreak. We train for every type of emergency, but you never expect this will happen in your own community,” Riley said in a public statement.
Due to safety concerns, firefighter teams had to be withdrawn, and the brush fire continued to burn for several hours while law enforcement officers secured the area.
Procession for Fallen Firefighters
In tribute to the fallen, the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department will perform a ceremonial procession, escorting the remains from Kootenai Health in Coeur d’Alene to Spokane, Washington. The procession will begin at 8:00 p.m. local time and will be joined by law enforcement and fire units from multiple agencies to escort.
Officials ask the public to line the streets to pay their respects, and they ask motorists to yield to the motorcade during the route.
Shelter-in-Place Lifted, Fire Still Burning
The Kootenai County Emergency Management Office had previously sent out a shelter-in-place alert to residents south of Hayden Lake Road and east of 15th Street, requesting individuals to stay indoors due to the threat of an active shooter.
Although the immediate danger from the gunman has passed, the authorities are still warning of the wildfire. It is not yet possible to determine the exact scope of the fire.
Community Support and Ongoing Investigation
A number of agencies, including federal investigators, are now involved in piecing together what happened. It is still unknown what could have motivated the suspect gunman or whether he had any accomplices.
This senseless tragedy has wounded the Coeur d’Alene community and the firefighting community across the country. Local churches and groups are holding vigils in the coming days to honor the dead.
“Our hearts are breaking,” one local resident said at a press conference near the scene. “These men were attempting to save lives and were met with violence. We owe them more than our gratitude.”
How You Can Help
Our hearts are breaking,” one resident said at a press conference near the scene. “These men were attempting to save lives and were met with violence. We owe them more than our gratitude.” Click here to donate.
Useful Links & Official Resources:
- Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office
- Northern Lakes Fire District
- Governor Brad Little – Facebook
- International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF)
- City of Coeur d’Alene
- Canfield Mountain Trailhead – Google Maps
Also read: UK Emergency Alert: Government Test on All Mobile Phones