A tragic ambush unfolded on Sunday on Canfield Mountain, a popular hiking area just outside the city of Coeur d’Alene, leaving two firefighters dead and one seriously injured. The suspect, believed to have intentionally started a wildfire before launching a deadly assault on emergency responders, was later found dead on the mountain after a six-hour manhunt involving hundreds of law enforcement personnel.
According to Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris, the suspect set a blaze around 1:21 p.m. and waited in hiding to ambush the first responders. When firefighters arrived at the scene, shots were fired by 2:00 p.m. Officers quickly responded, exchanging gunfire with the suspect. By 7:40 p.m., authorities located a body believed to be the gunman using cell phone tracking data. A firearm was also found nearby.
The identities of the slain and injured firefighters have not yet been released. Sheriff Norris confirmed that one of the deceased firefighters was from Kootenai County Fire and Rescue, while the other was from the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department. The injured firefighter, who underwent surgery, also serves in Coeur d’Alene.
“This was a total ambush. These firefighters did not have a chance,” said Norris during a news conference. “Today is a day that we will not forget in this community.”
A solemn procession was held Sunday night to honor the fallen firefighters.
Ongoing Investigation and Firefighting Efforts
While law enforcement continues to investigate the shooter’s identity and motive, firefighters remain on the mountain battling the blaze, which had grown to approximately 20 acres by late Sunday. Crews plan to work through the night to contain the fire. Sheriff Norris indicated that authorities expect to find additional weapons in the rugged terrain.
A shelter-in-place order issued during the incident was lifted Sunday evening, but officials have urged civilians to avoid the Canfield Mountain area. A strict no-fly zone, including a ban on drones, has been declared to protect firefighting and law enforcement operations.
The FBI has deployed tactical teams from its Salt Lake City Field Office to support local authorities. Deputy Director Dan Bongino described the situation as “active and very dangerous.” Federal officials, including Attorney General Pam Bondi and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, expressed support and emphasized that justice would be served.
Community in Shock
Local residents described scenes of chaos and fear. Nancy Murren, a longtime Coeur d’Alene resident who often hikes Canfield Mountain, said her normally quiet neighborhood was overtaken by helicopters and law enforcement.
“We have a beautiful corner of the world right here – it’s nice and peaceful,” she said. “This is unlike anything I’ve seen in more than 30 years here.”
Murren, whose home sits at the base of Canfield Mountain, said she and her husband are prepared to defend their property should the fire spread further. Although wildfires are not uncommon in the region, she noted there hasn’t been a major blaze on Canfield in at least a decade.
State and Federal Reactions
The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) confirmed the deaths of two members and reported a third in surgery following what they called a “heinous act of violence.” Officials at Kootenai Health Hospital confirmed they received the victims, though further details about the injured firefighter’s condition were not provided.
Idaho’s U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch issued statements condemning the attack. Crapo urged residents to follow law enforcement guidance and extended prayers to the victims. Risch labeled the act “villainous” and said it was “NOT Idaho.” Idaho GOP Chair Dorothy Moon also expressed solidarity with first responders and prayed for a swift resolution.
About Canfield Mountain and Coeur d’Alene
Canfield Mountain is a heavily forested area with over 25 miles of hiking and biking trails. The Canfield Mountain Natural Area spans 24 acres and is a key recreational destination in Coeur d’Alene.
The city of Coeur d’Alene, located in Kootenai County in northwest Idaho near the Washington border, has a population of over 57,000. The broader Kootenai County is home to nearly 190,000 residents and sits north of the Coeur d’Alene Native American Reservation.
Fire and Crime Scene Still Active
The wildfire, initially estimated at half an acre, was first reported by an anonymous caller—believed not to be the suspect. Three fire engines were dispatched by 1:30 p.m. before the gunfire broke out.
As of Monday morning, fire suppression efforts continue while investigators comb the mountain for evidence, including additional firearms. Authorities are urging the public to stay away from the area to allow emergency crews to safely conduct their operations.
This deadly ambush has shaken a tight-knit community and raised urgent questions about motive, preparedness, and the safety of first responders who risk their lives not only to fight fires but now also to survive targeted attacks.
