In a horrifying and tragic event now known as the Idaho firefighter ambush, two brave firefighters were gunned down while responding to a blaze on Canfield Mountain near Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Authorities revealed that the suspect, who remains unidentified, deliberately started a fire to lure first responders before launching a deadly attack.
According to Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris, the Idaho firefighter ambush began just after 1:21 p.m. on Sunday, when emergency services received a call reporting a fire on the eastern side of Canfield Mountain. Firefighters arrived quickly, but by 2:00 p.m., gunfire had erupted, signaling the beginning of the brutal attack.
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“This was a total ambush,” said Sheriff Norris. “These firefighters didn’t have a chance.”
One firefighter from Kootenai County Fire and Rescue and another from the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department were killed. A third firefighter, also from Coeur d’Alene, was wounded and later underwent surgery. He is now in stable condition, according to officials.
The response to the Idaho firefighter ambush involved nearly 300 officers from local, state, and federal agencies. Tactical teams scoured the wooded terrain of Canfield Mountain. Using cellphone tracking data, investigators located a signal that had not moved since 3:16 p.m. That led to the discovery of the suspect’s body and a firearm near the site, ending the manhunt around 7:40 p.m.
Authorities are still working to determine the cause of the suspect’s death. Sheriff Norris confirmed that law enforcement did engage in a shootout with the individual, though it remains unclear if he was killed by officers or died by suicide.
Meanwhile, the wildfire—used as bait in the Idaho firefighter ambush—grew to approximately 20 acres. Firefighters remained on-site through the night in efforts to contain the blaze. Officials noted that a more detailed investigation will be conducted once the area is secure and safe to search, as they suspect additional weapons may be present in the rugged terrain.
“This is a day our community will never forget,” said Bruce Mattare, Chairman of the Kootenai County Board of Commissioners. “This was the day evil showed its face, and we lost two of our best.”
A solemn procession took place Sunday evening to honor the firefighters killed in the Idaho firefighter ambush. Their identities have not been publicly released pending family notification.
Timeline of the Incident
- 1:21 p.m. – Fire is reported on Canfield Mountain. The call was anonymous and not linked to the suspect.
- 2:00 p.m. – Firefighters are attacked by gunfire.
- 3:16 p.m. – Cellphone data reveals a stationary signal.
- 7:40 p.m. – Authorities find the suspect dead and lift the shelter-in-place order.
Community Reaction to the Idaho Firefighter Ambush
Residents like Nancy Murren, who live near Canfield Mountain, described a heavy law enforcement presence and helicopters circling overhead for hours. “This part of Idaho is quiet and beautiful. We never imagined something like this could happen here,” she said.
She and her husband began watering their yard in preparation for the possibility that the fire might spread toward their home, located at the base of the mountain.
Federal and State Response
Federal agents, including tactical teams from the FBI, were deployed to the scene of the Idaho firefighter ambush. The Department of Homeland Security and other federal agencies are closely monitoring the situation and assisting in the investigation.
Public officials across the country expressed shock and grief. Idaho’s U.S. senators, as well as state leadership, issued public condolences, calling the attack despicable and a betrayal of those who serve to protect.
“This villainous attack on people who dedicate their lives to serving our communities is despicable,” one senator said.
About Canfield Mountain
Canfield Mountain, the site of the Idaho firefighter ambush, is a forested area with over 25 miles of trails. Popular among hikers and mountain bikers, it is typically a serene escape for nature lovers. That peace was shattered by the violent events of Sunday.
Authorities are asking civilians to avoid the area while law enforcement and firefighters continue their work. The area has been designated a no-fly zone, and drones are strictly prohibited.
Fire Status and Continued Risk
The fire—initially just a half-acre in size—has grown due to the delayed response caused by the ambush. Crews are now working to contain the blaze, which is still considered active and dangerous.
The Idaho firefighter ambush has left a deep wound in the heart of the Coeur d’Alene community. As the investigation continues and the fire is brought under control, residents are urged to stay alert, support one another, and honor the memory of those who gave their lives in service.
Stay informed about critical updates and support your local heroes. For accurate and real-time reporting, visit Hours of News. The victims of the Idaho firefighter ambush deserve our remembrance—and our commitment to a safer tomorrow.
