Two Idaho Firefighters Killed in Heinous Wildfire Trap

On June 29, firefighters from Coeur d’Alene and Kootenai County Fire & Rescue were ambushed by sniper fire while responding to a brush fire in Canfield Mountain Natural Area, Idaho.

The blaze, intentionally set to lure them in, erupted just after 1:30 p.m., and about 30 minutes later, the gunman opened fire—using high-powered modern sporting rifles—killing two firefighters and severely wounding a third.

A Lone Gunman Neutralized

Law enforcement responded with a massive mobilization. They sent over 300 officers, helicopter snipers, drones, and tactical teams from the FBI and ATF. A man believed to be acting alone was later found dead on the mountain with a firearm nearby; it’s unclear whether he took his own life or was shot in a standoff. Authorities lifted the shelter-in-place order after confirming no ongoing threat.

Firefighters Had “No Chance”

Sheriff Robert Norris described the incident as a “total ambush”. He said firefighters “did not have a chance” once shots were fired from multiple positions. Rescue ceased amid gunfire and advancing wildfire; the third firefighter, critically injured, remains in stable condition after surgery.

Community Mobilization and Grief

Idaho Governor Brad Little called the attack “a heinous direct assault” and urged residents to pray for the victims and their families. The International Association of Fire Fighters echoed that sentiment on X: “Two of our brothers were killed… a third remains in surgery”. A procession from Kootenai Health to Spokane honored the fallen heroes.

Logistical Nightmares Amid Crisis

The wildfire—estimated to have burned around 20 acres—complicated the tactical response. Authorities used cellphone data to pinpoint the suspect’s location. However, approaching flames forced them to retrieve the body quickly, preserving evidence. Helicopter snipers were deployed to contain the scene, and while civilian evacuation took priority, the fire remained active into the evening.

Legal Action and Investigation Ongoing

Agencies, including the FBI and ATF, are working alongside local officials to determine the suspect’s identity and motives. They also want to know whether additional firearms were planted. The incident raises urgent questions about the safety of emergency responders in remote areas. It additionally makes us question whether protocols must change to protect them from orchestrated attacks.

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