Idaho Governor Brad Little, shown in a July 2020 photo, described Sunday’s shooting of firefighters as a “terrible and direct attack.”
Two firefighters lost their lives, and others were hurt in a sniper attack on Sunday in Idaho. Officials described the shooting as a planned ambush.
Attack During Wildfire Response
Firefighters were working to control a wildfire in Canfield Mountain Natural Area. This park covers about 24 acres of dense forest east of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Around 2 p.m. local time, as the firefighters worked, they came under sudden sniper fire.
Edward Kelly, the head of the International Association of Fire Fighters, confirmed that two firefighters were killed by a sniper. He said a third firefighter was injured and was still in surgery.
“Please keep them, their families and law enforcement in your prayers,” Kelly said on social media.
Manhunt and Lockdown
After the shooting, authorities launched a long and intense manhunt for the attacker. The search lasted several hours.
By Sunday night, the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office reported that SWAT officers found the body of a man near a firearm. This discovery suggested the suspect was dead.
Soon after, officials lifted the shelter-in-place order that had kept residents inside since the attack started. However, they warned people to stay away from the area because the wildfire was still active.
Words from Officials
Governor Brad Little posted a message online, calling the attack “heinous” and asking Idaho residents to pray for the firefighters and their families. He said he and his wife were heartbroken by the tragedy.
Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris gave an update earlier in the day. He confirmed two firefighters were killed and others were hurt, but the exact number of injured was not clear.
Norris said the firefighters faced “sniper fire” as they responded to the blaze. He warned the suspect was dangerous and “well prepared.” He described the weapon as a powerful rifle designed for long-range shooting.
Ongoing Investigation and Support
Sheriff Norris said officers were ready to stop the suspect, who was actively firing at public safety workers. He added that if the suspect had not been found quickly, the operation could have lasted several days.
The FBI also joined the investigation. Deputy Director Dan Bongino said agents helped with both tactical and operational support on the scene.
The lockdown order was lifted after the body was found, but police asked residents to avoid the area while firefighters continued to battle the wildfire.
Impact on the Community
This tragic attack shook the local community and fire services deeply. Firefighters risk their lives every day to protect people and property. The loss of two of their own during a wildfire response is a painful reminder of the dangers they face.
Many have expressed their support and sympathy for the families of the fallen firefighters and the injured colleague.
