Tragic Sniper Attack Claims Lives of Firefighters in Idaho Wildfire Response

In a tragic incident in northwestern Idaho, at least two firefighters were killed while battling a blaze at Canfield Mountain, near Coeur d'Alene, on Sunday, June 30, 2025. The Kootenai County Sheriff's Office reported that the firefighters came under sniper fire from an unidentified suspect or suspects shortly after they began their firefighting efforts. The attack has raised grave concerns about the safety of first responders in the region, prompting an active shooter situation that continues to unfold.

The firefighting crews were dispatched to the area around 1:21 PM local time, responding to a fire reported in the mountainous terrain. Approximately 40 minutes later, gunfire was reported, leading Sheriff Bob Norris to confirm that the firefighters were "taking sniper fire" in what he described as an ongoing and dangerous situation. He indicated that the sniper was likely concealed within the rugged landscape, complicating efforts to neutralize the threat. "We don't know how many suspects are up there, and we don't know how many casualties there are," Sheriff Norris stated during a press briefing.

Idaho Governor Brad Little condemned the shooting as a "heinous direct assault" and called for prayers for the victims and their families. The governor's statement reflects the broader concern for the safety of first responders, who often face significant risks while performing their duties. Governor Little urged all Idahoans to support the brave firefighters in the wake of this tragedy.

The incident has drawn attention not only for its immediate impact but also for the implications it poses for public safety and emergency response protocols. According to Lieutenant Jeff Howard of the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office, investigators are considering the possibility that the fire may have been intentionally set to lure first responders into a vulnerable situation. This theory, if confirmed, would mark a dangerous precedent in the way emergencies are handled in the region.

As the situation develops, armored police vehicles have been deployed to the scene, and Sheriff Norris has instructed deputies to be prepared to return fire. "I’m hoping that somebody has a clear shot and is able to neutralize, because they’re not at this point in time showing any evidence of wanting to surrender," he expressed during the press conference.

In the midst of the firefighting efforts, Coeur d'Alene Fire Chief Pat Riley expressed his heartbreak over the attack, emphasizing the danger inherent in wildland firefighting. "The fire is still burning, and we've seen how quickly wildfires can spread in these conditions," Riley noted. He confirmed that no evacuations had been ordered, but acknowledged that the situation was precarious due to the ongoing gunfire and the uncontained blaze.

The community of Coeur d'Alene, a city with a population of approximately 55,000, is located near the Washington state border and is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities. Canfield Mountain, a popular hiking and biking area, is characterized by heavy brush and numerous trails, making it an accessible yet hazardous location for both firefighters and potential shooters.

As the investigation continues, the sheriff’s office has urged residents to avoid the area around Canfield Mountain Trailhead and Nettleton Gulch Road. The ongoing nature of the incident underscores the heightened risks faced by emergency responders, particularly in a state where wildfires are a frequent occurrence.

This incident has also prompted discussions among law enforcement and fire management agencies regarding enhanced safety protocols for first responders in active shooter situations. Firefighting efforts, often already perilous due to environmental conditions, may require additional protective measures to safeguard personnel against targeted attacks.

In summary, the sniper attack in Idaho has not only resulted in the tragic loss of life but has also raised important questions about the protection of firefighters and first responders in emergency scenarios. Moving forward, local and state officials will need to address these concerns to prevent similar incidents and ensure the safety of those who serve the community in times of crisis.