Two Firefighters Killed in Idaho Sniper Ambush

In a tragic and shocking turn of events, two firefighters were killed on Sunday, June 29, 2025. They were ambushed by sniper fire while responding to a wildfire near Canfield Mountain, just north of Coeur d’Alene. The assault, described by Governor Brad Little as a “heinous” act, left the firefighting community shaken and prompted an immediate response from law enforcement, including local and federal agencies.

A Harrowing Attack on First Responders

Around 1:30 p.m. local time, crews from the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office and other firefighting teams arrived to combat a blaze in the area. Less than 30 minutes later, gunshots rang out as they were ambushed by sniper fire, with the assailant or assailants hiding in the rugged terrain surrounding the mountain. The gunfire continued for several hours, making it difficult for first responders to do their jobs.

In a press conference later that day, Sheriff Bob Norris confirmed the situation remained active. Law enforcement continued responding to sniper fire. He explained that crews on the scene were under constant threat from the attacker, who was believed to be using a high-powered rifle. Sheriff Norris also expressed concerns about more casualties. However, he emphasized the sheriff’s office couldn’t provide full details yet.

State and Federal Response

Governor Brad Little condemned the attack, calling it an “attack on our brave firefighters,” and urged Idahoans to keep the victims and their families in their prayers. “This is a heinous direct assault,” he stated on social media. Law enforcement and first responders from across the state were deployed to the scene. Additionally, the FBI responded to offer technical and tactical support.

As the hours passed, law enforcement worked to secure the area and evacuate those at risk. The Kootenai County Emergency Management Office issued an alert. It advised the public to avoid the Canfield Mountain Trailhead and Nettleton Gulch Road area, located about 4 miles north of downtown Coeur d’Alene.

The Ongoing Danger and Uncertainty

As of the latest updates, the fire remains active, and firefighting efforts were hindered due to the sniper threat. Sheriff Norris confirmed that no firefighting resources could be deployed to control the fire until the situation with the gunman was resolved. Authorities are unsure whether more suspects are involved, but investigations are ongoing.

The sniper attack has left the community reeling. Officials expressed disbelief over the targeted violence against those risking their lives to protect others. “We are horrified by the murder of two firefighters in Coeur d’Alene,” the Idaho House Republican Leadership stated, offering condolences to the victims’ families.

A Popular Area Turned Dangerous

Canfield Mountain, where the attack occurred, is a popular outdoor recreation area known for its hiking and biking trails. The rugged terrain, covered in dense brush and trees, proved difficult for authorities to navigate during the crisis, with snipers potentially having the upper hand in such an environment.

The situation is still under investigation, and law enforcement continues to search for the assailant. The identity of the victims has not been released as of the latest reports. However, officials have confirmed the loss of two brave individuals who were simply doing their jobs to protect the community. 

More… 

• https://www.cnn.com/us/live-news/idaho-coeur-dalene-firefighters-shooting
• https://www.yahoo.com/news/western-idaho-residents-urged-shelter-231135863.html
• https://www.kxly.com/news/were-actively-taking-sniper-fire-kootenai-co-sheriff-confirms-2-dead-one-or-more-gunmen/article_def00f0a-c42c-484f-bf90-25782db8a208.html