Coeur d’Alene, Idaho – What should have been a routine Sunday turned into a nightmare on Canfield Mountain. A small brush fire — likely ignited on purpose — drew local firefighters to the wooded trailhead just outside Coeur d’Alene. But as they began their response, shots rang out from the trees above. Within minutes, two firefighters were dead. A third was clinging to life.
The community has been left shaken by what officials are calling a deliberate and heartless ambush — one of the deadliest attacks on first responders in Idaho’s history.
What Happened on Canfield Mountain
It started just after 1:20 p.m., when emergency crews were dispatched to a blaze in the dry hills above town. The sun was hot, the air crisp with pine and smoke — typical conditions during Idaho’s fire season.
Firefighters arrived quickly and began their work, unaware that a gunman had set the fire and was lying in wait.
From a concealed position uphill, the shooter opened fire with a high-powered rifle. The terrain offered him perfect cover and a clear view of his unsuspecting targets below.
Chaos erupted. Some firefighters dropped to the ground; others tried to drag their wounded colleagues to safety. One responder was hit and critically injured. Two others never made it out.
Massive Response from Law Enforcement
As soon as the situation was recognized as an active shooter event, law enforcement agencies from across the state converged on the scene. SWAT teams, helicopters, drones — more than 300 personnel mobilized.
By early evening, the area was swarming with tactical units combing the mountain, searching for the shooter. At around 7:40 p.m., officers found the gunman’s body near the original fire. He was armed and dressed in tactical gear. It’s unclear whether he died by suicide or was killed during the standoff.
The fire, still burning through dry brush, had to be left unattended for hours.
The Toll: Two Heroes Gone, One Fighting to Survive
Authorities confirmed that two firefighters were killed in the attack — one from the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department and another from Kootenai County Fire & Rescue. Their names have not yet been released, pending family notifications.
The third firefighter, who was critically wounded, was rushed into surgery and is now stable, though still in intensive care.
At dusk, emergency vehicles lined the streets in solemn tribute as the bodies of the fallen were transported to the medical examiner’s office. Residents stood along the roads, many holding flags and wiping tears from their eyes.
Was It a Trap? Authorities Say Yes
Investigators now believe the fire was intentionally set to lure responders into the area. The shooter waited for them to arrive before opening fire.
It’s a chilling tactic — one that recalls rare but devastating incidents where attackers use emergencies to target those rushing to help. The shooter had planned this, authorities say. He was armed, equipped, and positioned in a place that gave him a tactical advantage.
His motive remains unknown. Investigators are examining his background, digital records, and any writings or communications that might offer answers.
“A Heinous Act”: Leaders React
At a press briefing, Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris didn’t mince words: “This was an ambush. They never had a chance.”
Idaho Governor Brad Little called the shooting “a cowardly, senseless act of violence against public servants.” He has ordered state flags to be flown at half-mast in memory of the victims.
Across the country, fire departments have been expressing grief and solidarity. The International Association of Fire Fighters issued a statement calling the attack “barbaric and unforgivable,” and praised the fallen for their bravery.
The Fire Still Burns
Meanwhile, the brush fire itself — the one that lured in the victims — continues to burn on the mountain. Firefighting crews were pulled back for their own safety during the standoff, but containment efforts are now resuming.
No homes are currently threatened, but with hot, dry weather forecast for the coming days, officials remain cautious.
Hiking trails, campgrounds, and mountain access points around Canfield remain closed to the public.
What Happens Next
The investigation will take time. Authorities are piecing together the shooter’s timeline, mental state, and possible motivations. He acted alone, but officials want to know if anyone else helped him plan or provided him with weapons or gear.
At the same time, discussions are already underway about how to protect first responders in the future — especially in rural, high-risk areas where help is often miles away.
Could drones or advanced surveillance systems be used during early fire calls? Should law enforcement automatically accompany firefighters to remote fires? These are uncomfortable questions, but the answers could save lives.
A Community United in Grief
Grief hangs heavy over Coeur d’Alene. This quiet mountain town, known more for its scenic views and lakefront charm than for tragedy, is now the site of one of the state’s worst acts of targeted violence.
But amid the sadness, there is unity. Candlelight vigils have already been held. A memorial is being planned. Donations are pouring in to support the families of the victims. Local businesses have begun offering free meals and services to first responders.
In the words of one firefighter speaking at the vigil: “We go out there to save people. We don’t expect to be shot at for doing our job.”
Final Thoughts
This was not just an attack on firefighters. It was an attack on public service, on safety, and on the spirit of helping others in their hour of need.
The fallen firefighters of Coeur d’Alene will be remembered not just for how they died — but for how they lived. They answered the call, ran toward danger, and tried to make the world a little safer. That’s what heroes do.
Their families, friends, and fellow firefighters are left to carry on — and to heal. But their sacrifice will never be forgotten