Idaho Firefighters Shot Today: Sniper Ambush on Canfield Mountain
A Heinous Act of Violence
On June 29, 2025, an unthinkable tragedy struck near Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Two firefighters were fatally shot, and a third sustained serious injuries in a planned sniper ambush while responding to a brush fire on Canfield Mountain. Authorities believe the blaze may have been deliberately set to lure first responders into a trap.
Multiple shooters, possibly armed with high-powered rifles, opened fire from dense brush, forcing crews and law enforcement to halt firefighting efforts amid chaos and extreme danger.
The Timeline of Events
| Time (Local) | Event |
|---|---|
| 1:21 p.m. | Firefighters dispatched to a brush fire on Canfield Mountain |
| ~2:00–2:10 p.m. | Sniper fire erupts, catching crews off guard |
| ~5:00 p.m. | Authorities report ongoing sniper fire with multiple shooters |
| Evening | SWAT team locates deceased suspect with firearm; shelter-in-place lifted |
| June 30 (early hours) | Scene remains active; fire still burns; one firefighter hospitalized |
Developments in Focus
1. Severity of the Attack
-
Multiple high-powered rifles used from concealed positions, with rounds fired over several hours.
-
Sheriff's office confirmed multiple shooters, still feigning within the brushy terrain.
2. Tactical Response
-
Firefighting efforts paused for safety reasons; resources diverted to neutralize threats.
-
Authorities executed return fire protocols; SWAT teams located a deceased suspect with a firearm by nightfall.
Confirmed Facts
-
Fatalities: 2 firefighters killed on scene; a third wounded and hospitalized.
-
Weapons: High-powered modern sporting rifles used by shooter(s).
-
Suspect(s): At least one suspect found deceased; unclear if more remain at large.
-
Cause of fire: Investigators suspect it was intentionally set to ambush responders.
-
Emergency orders: Shelter-in-place issued, then lifted; no-fly zone imposed over site.
-
Investigative support: Kootenai County, FBI, ATF, DHS assets all deployed.
-
Public warnings: Residents urged to avoid the area; fire continues burning as safety operations remain ongoing.
Impacts and Responses
Community and Leadership Reactions
-
Idaho Governor Brad Little condemned it as a “heinous direct assault” and asked residents to pray for the fallen firefighters' families.
-
State lawmakers expressed outrage at the viciousness of the ambush, calling it deeply disturbing .
-
Firefighter union (IAFF) confirmed two members were killed and another was undergoing surgery, describing the attack as barbaric.
Operational Challenges
-
Fire suppression delayed due to active shooter environment and safety concerns.
-
Civilian evacuees and rescue in disarray as hikers fled under fire; some reportedly injured or trapped .
What Happens Next?
-
Active investigation continues, including motive, triggers, and suspect count.
-
Search operations and suspect tracking still under way in dense terrain.
-
Firefighting to resume only after establishing secure conditions.
-
Community support efforts anticipated: vigils, firefighter support, and policy debates on emergency responder safety.
Concluding Thoughts
The ambush on a rescue mission is a nightmare scenario for communities. These first responders answered their calling, only to meet an unimaginable crisis. The ripple effects will be profound:
-
Policy and protocol changes: Calls for revised procedures to protect emergency personnel in high-risk environments.
-
Mental health impact: Psychological trauma among survivors and responders is inevitable.
-
Renewed debate: On firearm regulation, national first responder safety, and public land fire threats.
Final Takeaway
This tragedy on Canfield Mountain is more than a headline—it’s a somber reminder of the risks public servants face. As investigations proceed and firefighting resumes, Idaho stands united in mourning, seeking solutions to ensure such an attack never acontece again.
