Two people were shot and killed in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, while answering a call to a brush fire on Canfield Mountain. The victims, believed to be part of the firefighting team, were fatally hit as gunshots broke out. More people were also hurt during the attack. The gunman, or possibly more than one, used high-powered rifles to fire at law officers who rushed to the scene.
The fire started as a small half-acre blaze. But it quickly turned into a violent situation when shots rang out from different directions. Law enforcement believes the fire may have been set on purpose to lure first responders into an ambush.
Kootenai County Sheriff Robert Norris said officers are still trying to stop the shooter or shooters. He confirmed that shots are coming from more than one direction. “We don’t know if it’s one, two, three, or four shooters,” he said. “But we will neutralize this threat.”
Audio from emergency radio calls shows that a firefighter on the scene thought the fire was used as bait. That suspicion grew as bullets flew while fire crews tried to work.
The blaze is still active, and law enforcement is calling it a “rapid fire” situation. Police and emergency teams have closed off the area, and people nearby are being told to shelter in place. The terrain is hilly, with thick trees and narrow trails. Hikers and local residents are stuck on the mountain, unable to leave safely.
“This is going to be a multiday operation,” said Sheriff Norris. “It’s going to be a tough few hours. I hope someone can get a clear shot to stop this. These shooters are not giving any sign they want to surrender.”
The sheriff described the weapons used as “modern day sporting rifles.” These rifles are often similar in type and style to military assault weapons, capable of rapid and deadly fire.
Law enforcement from several agencies is at the scene. The FBI is also sending teams to support the local response. “We are providing tactical and operational support,” said Deputy Director Dan Bongino in a post on X.
A video from the scene shows police speeding through roadblocks and heading into the danger zone. Officers were seen racing past barriers while other police units blocked traffic to keep people away.
Kootenai County’s Emergency Management Office has warned residents to stay inside. People are also being told not to come near the area, to give law officers and firefighters space to work.
Idaho Governor Brad Little shared his concern in a public message. He asked people to stay away from the mountain and pray for the victims. “Multiple heroic firefighters were attacked today while responding to a fire in North Idaho,” he wrote on X. “This is a direct assault on our brave responders. Teresa and I are heartbroken. We are praying for the families of the victims.”
The shooting happened in the Canfield Mountain Natural Area, located on the east side of Coeur d’Alene. The park is known for its 24 acres of hiking and biking trails and heavy forest cover. The wooded area made the shooting more dangerous, as it provided cover for the shooter or shooters to hide.
At this point, the number of people hurt is not known. Emergency crews are still searching the area. Because of the remote trails and thick trees, the task is slow and dangerous.
Officials are not ready to give full details about the victims. But early reports suggest they were firefighters. Their names have not been released yet. Authorities are working to notify families and confirm identities.
The community of Coeur d’Alene is in shock. The city, usually peaceful, is now the site of an active manhunt and a deadly attack on public servants. Fire and police departments across the state have expressed sadness and support for their fallen colleagues.
Many questions remain. Who set the fire? How many shooters were involved? And what was the motive behind the attack? Law officers are working around the clock to find answers.
Until then, the focus is on keeping people safe and bringing an end to the threat.
The sheriff reminded everyone to stay patient and trust the response teams. “We’re doing everything we can. But safety comes first,” he said.
As night falls on the wooded slopes of Canfield Mountain, emergency lights still flash, and gunshots may still echo. But the resolve of Idaho’s first responders remains firm.
They are determined to protect their community—even in the face of danger.
