update: This story was last updated on June 29th at 11:45pm Mountain Time.

In a tragic incident in Northern Idaho, two firefighters lost their lives and another was injured while responding to a brush fire. During their efforts, a shooter opened fire on them.

Kim Anderson from Kootenai Health stated that three individuals were transported to Coeur D’Alene Hospital. The Associated Press reported that, unfortunately, the two firefighters were pronounced dead upon arrival, while the third is currently receiving treatment for injuries sustained.

The injured firefighter is reportedly stable after undergoing surgery, according to Cootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris, who provided an update during a press conference at 9:30 PM Pacific Time. Details about the extent of the injuries have not been disclosed.

“He’s fighting for his life, but he’s stable,” the sheriff mentioned.

The fire was reported around 1:30 PM on Sunday, near Canfield Mountain in Coeur d’Alene. According to Sheriff Norris, the shooter began firing at around 2 PM, and he suspects a connection between the fire and the shooter’s actions.

“We believe the suspect initiated the fire in an ambush, and it was intentional,” Norris stated, emphasizing the deliberate nature of the act.

Later that evening, the sheriff’s office announced that a SWAT team discovered a deceased male with a rifle near Canfield Mountain.

The Shelter in Place Order issued by the Cootenai County emergency management system has now been lifted, although the Nettleton Gulch Fire continues to burn as firefighters had to pause their response due to the active shooter situation.

“There are still active wildfires in Canfield Mountain,” the Cootenai County Emergency Management noted on social media, advising local residents to remain prepared for any escalation and to rely on official sources for updates.

The Idaho Land Department indicated that firefighters were unable to approach the fire until it was considered safe around 7:30 PM. “The crew estimates the fire will cover around 15-20 acres, and there are many obstacles,” they added, highlighting the need for additional resources including aircraft and heavy equipment.

While the investigation into the fire’s cause goes on, the area has been declared a no-fly zone due to the presence of active firefighting efforts, and the sheriff’s office has reminded the public about the dangers posed by unauthorized aircraft.

The sheriff also cautioned the community against donating funds to support the victims’ families without official guidance, noting that scammers often exploit such tragedies.

Details on the Shooting Incident

The initial report of the fire came in at 1:21 PM, shortly before alerts began to come through about shots being fired at firefighters from the mountains.

Emergency responders, including three engines from both Cootenai County Fire Forces and Kohl d’Arraine Fire Station, were dispatched to the scene. One of the fallen firefighters was from Cootenai County, while the other was from Kohl Darene Fire Station. The injured firefighter also served in Kohl Darene, according to Sheriff Norris.

Norris relayed that there’s an ongoing assessment of what else might be discovered once the threat level decreases.

During two press conferences on Sunday, the sheriff mentioned that they were actively deploying resources, including snipers, to handle the situation. “This is a proactive effort,” he noted, confirming that multiple agencies were involved.

“The shooters appear to be using modern sporting rifles,” he added. There was initial uncertainty about the number of shooters involved, but later updates from the sheriff pointed to just one shooter, although there had been reports of gunfire coming from various directions.

“These next few hours will be challenging. It’s crucial for a clear shot to be made in order to neutralize the threat,” he remarked, emphasizing the serious nature of the ongoing situation.

There’s been some uncertainty regarding the suspect’s death—whether it came from an officer’s actions or a self-inflicted wound. An autopsy is pending and will provide more clarity on this matter.

Approximately 300 officers from local, state, and federal agencies responded to the incident, according to Norris. Among those involved is FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino, who indicated that tactical support would be provided at the scene.

Responses from Officials

Cootenai County Commission Chairman Bruce Matare described the shooting as “pointless and tragic,” remarking on the day as one that would be etched into the community’s memory, noting the loss of two exemplary firefighters.

“We can’t fathom why someone would commit such a heinous act,” he said, adding that this type of violence is unprecedented in their area.

Idaho Governor Brad Little expressed his sorrow over the attack on the firefighters and urged the public to keep their distance from the scene while investigations continued.

US Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Lisch also commented on the tragic event, offering their prayers for the victims and highlighting their commitment to monitoring the situation closely.

Statements from leadership expressed shock and heartbreak over the senseless violence faced by first responders, reaffirming community support in these difficult times.