Firefighters Ambushed in Coeur d’Alene: Two Dead, Suspect Neutralized in Sunday Attack
Firefighters Ambushed in Coeur d’Alene: Two Dead, Suspect Neutralized in Sunday Attack
A tragic incident unfolded Sunday afternoon in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, where two firefighters were fatally ambushed by a gunman while responding to a brush fire. The suspected shooter was later found dead after an extensive multi-agency manhunt.
The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that SWAT team members located a deceased male on Canfield Mountain with a firearm nearby. The fatalities were identified as fire personnel from the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department and the Kootenai County Fire Department. Kootenai County Sheriff Robert Norris described the attack as a “total ambush,” stating the firefighters “did not have a chance.”
The incident began around 1:21 p.m. with a report of a small brush fire. By 2 p.m., firefighters reported coming under gunfire. One injured individual, who sustained a gunshot wound, was transported to Kootenai Health Hospital. Over 300 law enforcement officers responded, with some exchanging gunfire with the suspect. The suspect was confirmed dead by 7:40 p.m. Authorities believe there was only one shooter based on evidence at the scene.
Law enforcement is investigating whether the brush fire was intentionally set to lure first responders. Idaho Governor Brad Little condemned the incident as a “heinous direct assault on our brave firefighters.” The shelter-in-place order for the area has been lifted, though residents are advised to monitor updates on the ongoing fire.
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