A SWAT team discovered a deceased man and a firearm near the scene hours after a sniper attack in Idaho. The incident resulted in the deaths of two firefighters and the injury of another while they were battling a wildfire. The Kootenai County Sheriff's office confirmed the location of the deceased on Canfield Mountain and lifted a shelter-in-place order, though the wildfire continued to burn.
The International Association of Fire Fighters confirmed the fatalities, stating that the victims were firefighters ambushed in a violent act. Approximately 300 law enforcement officers were present at the scene. The association requested prayers for the victims, their families, and law enforcement.
The FBI responded to provide tactical and operational support, with technical teams and assets on-site. The situation was described as active and dangerous.
Kootenai County Sheriff Robert Norris reported that two firefighters were killed, and a third was in stable condition after surgery. He stated that the suspect was believed to have started the fire and that the attack was intentional, describing it as a complete ambush. Law enforcement tracked the suspect's location via a cellphone signal and made a recommendation to neutralize the shooter.
The sheriff noted that the fire had compromised evidence at the crime scene. The investigation will continue, and crews will work through the night. Authorities had issued an alert earlier, warning of an active shooter on Canfield Mountain and urging people to avoid the area.
Officials confirmed that the firefighters were responding to a brush fire when the shooting began. The suspect appeared to have used high-powered sporting rifles. Fire crews were forced to retreat due to the danger, and the brush fire continued to pose a threat. Residents were urged to stay vigilant and exercise caution.
Various officials, including Attorney General Pam Bondi, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, Idaho Governor Brad Little, and Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador, expressed their condolences and support. The sheriff's office was in communication with the White House, FBI, and governor's office.
5 Comments
Raphael
This is just another sad story out of the many. We need to fix the problems.
Leonardo
This is a clear indication of the need to address mental health issues in our society. What would drive someone to do something like this?
Michelangelo
The fact that they found a firearm is just a reminder of how accessible weapons are.
Donatello
Prayers for the recovery of the injured firefighter and for the strength of the community during this difficult time.
Michelangelo
The media is focusing on the wrong things. Why aren't we discussing the underlying causes of this kind of rage and violence?