Authorities in Idaho have reported that two firefighters were killed and another injured in what is believed to be a sniper attack. The incident occurred as the crew was responding to a wildfire on Canfield Mountain, near Coeur d’Alene, in the state’s northwest. The attack happened around 2:00 pm on June 29, shortly after the firefighters from the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department and Kootenai County Fire and Rescue arrived at the scene.
The attack resulted in the deaths of members from both fire departments. The International Association of Fire Fighters’ general president condemned the act, labeling it as a ‘heinous act of violence’. In a Twitter post, he stated: “Two of our brothers were killed by a sniper, and a third brother remains in surgery.”
Idaho Governor Brad Little also commented, stating: “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.”
“As this situation is still developing, please stay clear from the area to allow law enforcement and firefighters to do their jobs. Please keep them, their families, and law enforcement in your prayers,” he added.
Authorities have advised residents to avoid Canfield Mountain while the wildfire continues to burn. The suspected shooter was discovered dead in the area, according to officials.
The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office released a statement: “This evening, members of the SWAT team located a deceased male on Canfield Mountain. A firearm was found nearby. Additional information will be provided during the scheduled press briefing at 9:30 PM.” The statement also mentioned that the Shelter in Place order has been lifted, but residents should remain prepared due to the ongoing wildfire.
The injured firefighter from Coeur d’Alene is reportedly in stable condition, as confirmed by Sheriff Bob Norris during a press briefing. “This was a total ambush, these firefighters did not have a chance,” Sheriff Norris stated.
He further explained, “We have currently one dead shooter based on the preliminary investigation that was being conducted. Keep in mind we had a fire that was rapidly approaching the body so we had to scoop up that body and we had to transport that body to a different location.” He concluded, “We believe that it is the only shooter that was on that mountain at that time.”
The identities of the victims have not been released.