Two firefighters were killed and one injured in an ambush in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, on June 29, 2025. The suspected shooter, believed to ...
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- Two firefighters were killed and one injured in an ambush in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, on June 29, 2025.
- The suspected shooter, believed to have started the fire intentionally, was found dead, likely from a self-inflicted wound.
- The incident is under investigation, with authorities examining motives and potential arson clues.
- The community and officials, including Idaho Governor Brad Little, have expressed shock and condemnation.
Incident Overview
On June 29, 2025, a tragic ambush occurred on Canfield Mountain in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, where two firefighters lost their lives and another was injured while responding to a brush fire. The suspected shooter, believed to have set the fire deliberately, was later found dead on the mountain, with a firearm nearby.
Community and Official Response
Idaho Governor Brad Little called the attack a "heinous direct assault" on firefighters in an X post . Local officials, including Sheriff Bob Norris, described it as a "total ambush," highlighting the unexpected nature of the violence against first responders.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are investigating the incident, focusing on the suspect's motives and possible arson. The crime scene, compromised by the fire, may complicate evidence collection, but search warrants are likely to be issued.
Detailed Report on the Incident
This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the tragic ambush in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, on June 29, 2025, where two firefighters were killed and another injured. The incident, described as a "total ambush," has shocked the community and raised significant concerns about the safety of first responders. Below, we detail the event, official responses, community reactions, and the ongoing investigation, ensuring a thorough understanding for readers.
Incident Details
The incident began at 1:21 p.m. on June 29, 2025, when a brush fire was reported on Canfield Mountain, part of the Canfield Mountain Natural Area in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Firefighters from the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department and Kootenai County responded to the scene. By 2 p.m., as they were combating the blaze, they came under sniper fire from an unknown assailant. This sudden attack resulted in the deaths of two firefighters—one from each department—and left another firefighter from Coeur d’Alene Fire Department injured. The injured firefighter has since undergone surgery and is in stable condition.
The brush fire, which scorched approximately 20 acres, did not damage any structures but posed challenges for the investigation. Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris described the event as a "total ambush," emphasizing that the firefighters were not equipped or trained to handle an active shooter scenario. He further revealed that the suspect had likely set the fire intentionally as part of a plan to ambush the responders, highlighting the premeditated nature of the attack.
The suspected shooter, whose identity has not been disclosed, was found dead on Canfield Mountain later that afternoon, around 3:15 p.m., after authorities received a cell phone signal leading to his location. His body was recovered approximately 1.5 hours later, along with a firearm. Authorities believe he was the sole shooter and suspect he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, though this has not been officially confirmed. Due to the approaching wildfire, the suspect's body was "scooped up," potentially compromising the crime scene further.
Official and Community Response
The incident has drawn strong reactions from both local and state officials. Idaho Governor Brad Little condemned the attack in an X post, describing it as a "heinous direct assault on our brave firefighters" . Similarly, Sen. Jim Risch called it a "villainous attack" on those who serve the community, reflecting the gravity of the situation.
Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris provided detailed insights during a press conference, noting the intentional nature of the ambush and the lack of preparation among firefighters for such violence. A shelter-in-place order was issued for the area but was lifted after the suspect’s body was discovered, ensuring no ongoing threat to the community. Law enforcement's swift response was praised, with efforts to secure the area and designate a no-fly zone to aid operations.
The community of Coeur d'Alene is in shock, with Kootenai County Commissioner Bruce Mattare stating, "This is not who we are as a community. This is senseless and tragic." A procession was held from Coeur d’Alene to Spokane to honor the fallen firefighters, and memorial services are being organized. The Coeur d’Alene Fire Department has set up a fund to support the families of the victims, reflecting community solidarity.
Investigation and Future Steps
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with authorities focusing on building a profile of the suspect and determining his motives. Search warrants are likely to be issued, and arson investigators are examining clues related to the fire's origin, given the suspicion that it was set intentionally. Former FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe commented on the complexity, noting that authorities will likely pursue a thorough investigation to uncover any additional evidence, despite the crime scene being compromised by the fire.
The Canfield Mountain Natural Area, where the incident occurred, is a popular recreational spot spanning 24 acres with over 25 miles of trails. This context adds to the shock, as the area is typically associated with outdoor activities rather than violence. Firefighting efforts were delayed by the gunfire, and hikers were evacuated, further complicating the response.
Authorities have stated there is no current threat to the community, but the incident has raised broader concerns about the safety of first responders. This event underscores the unpredictable risks they face, beyond natural hazards, and highlights the need for enhanced training and resources to address potential violence.
The ambush on June 29, 2025, in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, where two firefighters were killed and another injured, is a tragic reminder of the dangers faced by first responders. The suspected shooter's intentional act, believed to involve setting the fire to lure responders, has left the community in mourning and sparked a comprehensive investigation. As authorities work to uncover motives and ensure justice, the incident calls for renewed focus on protecting those who serve, ensuring their safety in an increasingly complex landscape.
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