A gunman opened fire on firefighters battling a wildfire near Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, killing two people. The shooting happened on Sunday afternoon while crews were working on Canfield Mountain.
According to the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office, emergency teams reached the wildfire around 1:30 p.m. However, within just 30 minutes, they began receiving gunfire.
Even later in the day, police said they were still “taking sniper fire” in the area.
Governor Reacts to Attack
Idaho Governor Brad Little condemned the shooting, calling it “a heinous, direct assault on our brave firefighters.” In his message posted on X, he added, “I ask all Idahoans to pray for them and their families as we wait to learn more.”
Multiple heroic firefighters were attacked today while responding to a fire in North Idaho. This is a heinous direct assault on our brave firefighters. I ask all Idahoans to pray for them and their families as we wait to learn more. Teresa and I are heartbroken.
— Brad Little (@GovernorLittle) June 29, 2025
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Because of the gunfire, police in neighboring Shoshone County warned people to stay away. They confirmed the suspect was still on the run and described the situation as an “active shooter” threat.
Public Told to Stay Clear
As a safety measure, officials asked residents to avoid Canfield Mountain Trailhead and Nettleton Gulch Road, which lie about 6.5 kilometers north of downtown Coeur d’Alene. Although the wildfire continued to burn, authorities shared no further updates about its impact.
Tense Situation Near Washington Border
Coeur d’Alene, home to around 55,000 people, sits near the border with Washington state. The shooting shocked the local community, especially since it targeted first responders in the middle of an emergency.
So far, officials have not released details about the suspect or a possible motive. The investigation is ongoing.