A shocking Idaho shooting incident unfolded Sunday afternoon as firefighters responded to a brush fire near Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Two people have been confirmed dead after attackers ambushed first responders, turning what should have been a routine emergency call into a harrowing, ongoing crisis. Authorities believe the brush fire may have been deliberately set to lure firefighters and law enforcement into a deadly trap.
The gunfire erupted on Canfield Mountain, just east of Coeur d’Alene, shortly after 2 p.m. local time. Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office reported that firefighters were met with sniper fire about 30 minutes after arriving at the scene, and that high-powered rifles were likely used. The shooter—or possibly multiple shooters—remains at large, blending into the wooded surroundings and continuing to pose a lethal threat to public safety personnel and civilians in the area.
Sheriff Robert Norris described the scene as “actively taking sniper fire,” with hundreds of law enforcement officers responding to evacuate civilians and neutralize the threat. Some residents remain trapped on the mountain, and authorities have expanded shelter-in-place orders to cover a broad area south of Hayden Lake Road and east of 15th Street. The FBI has deployed tactical and operational support to assist local law enforcement.
Community in Shock as Search Continues
The Idaho shooting has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit mountain community. Governor Brad Little condemned the attack as a “heinous direct assault” on first responders and urged all Idahoans to pray for the victims and their families. “Multiple heroic firefighters were attacked today while responding to a fire in North Idaho,” Little said in a statement. “This is a despicable and direct attack on our courageous firefighters.”
Officials have not yet released the names of the victims, but Sheriff Norris indicated that both fatalities are believed to be firefighters. The total number of injured remains unclear, and the situation continues to evolve as law enforcement works to secure the area and prevent further casualties. Firefighters have been forced to withdraw from the brush fire, which remains uncontained and continues to burn.
Residents are being urged to stay indoors and avoid the vicinity of Canfield Mountain. Kootenai County Emergency Management and the Shoshone County Sheriff’s Office have both issued alerts, warning that the shooter may still be at large and that the threat is ongoing. The FBI’s involvement underscores the gravity of the situation, with federal resources now supplementing local efforts.
Key Points: Idaho Shooting Incident
- Location: Canfield Mountain, near Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
- Time: Shots fired around 2 p.m. local time on Sunday, June 29, 2025
- Victims: Two people killed, believed to be firefighters; number of injured unknown
- Suspects: Shooter or shooters remain at large, possibly using high-powered rifles
- Motive: Authorities investigating whether the brush fire was intentionally set to lure first responders
- Response: Hundreds of law enforcement officers and FBI agents on scene; shelter-in-place orders in effect for surrounding communities
- Ongoing Threat: Sniper fire continues, and civilians may be trapped on the mountain
Unfolding Crisis and Public Safety Concerns
As the Idaho shooting crisis continues, public safety remains the top priority. The shooter’s ability to blend into the surrounding environment has made it difficult for law enforcement to locate and neutralize the threat. The use of modern sporting rifles and the possible presence of multiple assailants have compounded the danger, raising fears that the operation could last for days if the suspects are not apprehended soon.
Local media and social platforms, including YouTube and Instagram, are flooded with real-time updates, eyewitness accounts, and official statements. Many residents have shared videos and messages, expressing shock and solidarity with the first responders. The community is rallying around the families of the victims and those still in danger on the mountain.
Firefighters, unable to access the brush fire due to the ongoing threat, are left in a precarious position. The fire’s current size is unknown, but it poses an additional risk to the already tense situation. Authorities are working around the clock to ensure the safety of both civilians and emergency personnel, while also attempting to contain the wildfire.
What’s Next for Idaho Shooting Investigation?
The investigation into the Idaho shooting is still in its early stages. Law enforcement is working to determine the number of shooters, their motives, and whether the fire was intentionally set. The FBI’s involvement suggests the possibility of a broader threat, and officials are not ruling out the chance that this could be a coordinated attack.
The community is being asked to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity. Authorities are expected to hold another press conference to update the public as the situation develops. In the meantime, residents are encouraged to follow official guidance and stay away from the affected area.
This Idaho shooting incident highlights the dangers faced by first responders and the importance of community support during times of crisis. The bravery of the firefighters and law enforcement personnel on the scene has been widely praised, even as the threat remains unresolved.
Stay Informed and Support First Responders
As the Idaho shooting situation continues to unfold, it is crucial to stay updated through official channels and avoid spreading unverified information. The community’s thoughts are with the victims and their families, as well as the brave men and women working to restore safety and order.
For the latest updates, follow official social media accounts and local news outlets. Your cooperation and support can make a difference in helping first responders do their jobs and keeping the community safe.