Tragic Ambush: Two Firefighters Lose Lives in Coeur d’Alene Shooting Incident

A shocking incident unfolded on Canfield Mountain near Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, when a gunman launched an ambush-style attack on firefighters responding to a wildfire. Tragically, two firefighters lost their lives, and another was critically injured.

Authorities believe the fire was intentionally set to lure emergency crews to the area. Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris confirmed that there was only one shooter, and the community is no longer at risk. The gunman was found deceased at the scene, with a weapon nearby, leaving investigators questioning the motive behind this brutal act.

This event is a painful reminder of past tragedies in the area, including the killings of law enforcement officers like Coeur d’Alene Police Sgt. Greg Moore in 2015 and Idaho State Patrol Trooper Linda Huff in 1998. Such violence is rare in this otherwise peaceful community.

More than 300 officers from various agencies responded to the scene. The situation was chaotic, with some officers facing gunfire as they worked to control the suspect. Sheriff Norris mentioned that the attack created immense fear among local hikers, who were stranded on the mountain during the ordeal.

Kootenai County Fire and Rescue Deputy Chief Pete Holley expressed deep sorrow for the loss. “We are grieving as an organization,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of support for the surviving firefighters. The community echoed this sentiment, with local leaders and officials expressing their disbelief and heartbreak over the tragic loss.

Idaho Governor Brad Little described the attack as a direct assault on firefighters, calling for prayers and support for their families. As the incident gained national attention, reactions flooded in from across the country. Senator Mike Crapo condemned the shooting, labeling it horrific, while Rep. Mike Simpson also shared heartfelt thoughts on social media.

Despite the darkness of this event, the firefighting community is rallying together. In the aftermath, local agencies mobilized to provide support to grieving families and surviving firefighters.

Community members, like residents of nearby Spokane, gathered to honor the fallen firefighters. They observed a procession of emergency vehicles, a somber acknowledgment of the risks faced by those who serve.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers first responders face. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), nearly 60 firefighters lost their lives in 2021 while on duty. The emotional toll of such tragedies resonates deeply within communities everywhere.

In a world often fraught with violence, stories like this underscore the need for unity and support for those who put their lives on the line each day. As we mourn the loss of these brave individuals, it’s vital to offer compassion and strengthen the bonds within our communities.



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