At least two firefighters were killed and another remains in critical condition after first responders were ambushed while responding to a blaze on Canfield Mountain in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.
According to local authorities, the fire appears to have been intentionally set as bait to lure emergency personnel into a deadly trap. As firefighters arrived at the scene, they were met with sniper fire from an unknown number of assailants.
Law enforcement officials say the situation is still unfolding, with potentially up to four suspects believed to be involved. As of now, no arrests have been made.
Idaho Governor Brad Little called the ambush a “heinous direct assault on our brave firefighters,” urging residents to stay away from the area while police and emergency crews continue operations. “Multiple heroic firefighters were attacked today while responding to a fire in North Idaho,” he said. “Please stay clear and let law enforcement do their jobs.”
The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) confirmed that two of its members were killed in the ambush and that a third is undergoing surgery. “Please keep them, their families, and law enforcement in your prayers,” the union stated.
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino confirmed the bureau has deployed tactical units to assist local authorities. “FBI assets are headed to the scene in Coeur d’Alene to provide tactical and operational support,” Bongino said. “It is an active scene.”
Early reports suggest the fire was intentionally set as a lure—raising serious concerns about the possibility of organized violence targeting first responders.
This is a developing story.