Authorities in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, are investigating a horrific incident in which two firefighters were killed and a third injured in what is being described as a “total ambush.” The attack occurred on Canfield Mountain while the firefighters were responding to a brush fire, with law enforcement suspecting that the fire was deliberately set to lure first responders into harm’s way.
The Tragic Incident
The deadly event unfolded on Sunday when firefighters were dispatched to a brush fire on Canfield Mountain. As they arrived at the scene, they came under sniper fire. The attackers’ ambush left two firefighters dead and a third injured. The injured firefighter is expected to survive but has not been identified, and their condition remains unclear.
In the aftermath of the shooting, authorities found the body of a man near a firearm on the mountain. The man’s identity has not yet been confirmed, but officials suspect that he may have been the lone shooter responsible for the ambush. At this time, law enforcement believes the shooter was acting alone.
Investigation and Response
Kootenai County Sheriff Robert Norris addressed the media, stating that, based on the preliminary investigation, there appears to be no ongoing threat to the community. “There is no threat to the community at this time,” Norris confirmed. While the identity of the suspected shooter remains unconfirmed, authorities have not ruled out the possibility that the man died by suicide. Sheriff Norris also stated that the motive for the attack is still unclear, and no further details were provided about the investigation.
“This was a total ambush. These firefighters did not have a chance,” Sheriff Norris added, describing the brutal and premeditated nature of the attack.
Community Impact
The community of Coeur d’Alene has been shaken by this senseless violence. Firefighters, who are often regarded as heroes, were targeted in an unprecedented way, leading to grief and shock throughout the local area and among first responders. The fire department and local law enforcement are working together to determine the circumstances surrounding this deadly ambush and bring any necessary charges to justice.
As the investigation continues, authorities are left grappling with the shocking nature of the ambush on these first responders. The loss of two brave firefighters and the injury of another has left a deep scar in the community. While law enforcement continues to gather information, the motive behind the attack remains a mystery, and the community remains on edge as officials work to piece together the events that led to this tragedy.
