2 Firefighters Killed in Ambush in US Idaho

At least two firefighters were fatally shot and a third critically injured in a targeted ambush while responding to a wildfire near Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, on Sunday afternoon, in what authorities believe was a deliberate trap set by a lone gunman.

The tragic incident unfolded around 1:30 p.m. local time as crews arrived to contain a brush fire on Canfield Mountain, a popular area for hiking and cycling. According to Kootenai County Sheriff Robert Norris, the fire appears to have been intentionally ignited to lure emergency personnel into a deadly ambush.

As firefighters attempted to combat the blaze, they came under sniper fire. Responding law enforcement officers also encountered ongoing gunfire during the initial response, complicating rescue efforts. Authorities were initially unsure if multiple assailants were involved due to the difficult terrain and heavy smoke obscuring visibility.

Later in the day, a suspect believed to be responsible for the attack was found dead, reportedly located using cell phone tracking. Sheriff Norris confirmed that the individual is believed to have acted alone and that there is no ongoing threat to the local community.

Kootenai Health hospital confirmed that three individuals were transported from the scene. Two firefighters were pronounced dead on arrival, while a third remains in critical condition following emergency surgery.

The attack has shocked the northern Idaho community, with officials describing the incident as a deeply calculated assault on public safety responders. Investigations are ongoing to determine the suspect’s motive.