Two Killed, One Injured in Deliberate Attack on Canfield Mountain

The tragic events unfolded in Kootenai County, Idaho, where firefighters were ambushed while responding to a blaze. Audio recordings from the scene captured the urgent call for assistance following the attack.

The ambush, which occurred on Sunday afternoon, resulted in the deaths of two firefighters and the wounding of another. Authorities later discovered the body of a deceased man in the vicinity, along with a firearm. Following the investigation, the shelter-in-place order was lifted.

Fire crews were initially dispatched to a fire on Canfield Mountain, north of Coeur d’Alene, around 1:30 p.m. Gunfire erupted approximately half an hour later. The audio from the scene revealed the dire situation, with a firefighter reporting an "emergency situation" and an "active shooter at a fire."

The firefighter urgently requested law enforcement assistance, stating that "two battalion chiefs" were down. The caller further described the scene, mentioning multiple gunshot wounds and the critical condition of the injured firefighters. The caller also expressed the belief that the fire had been deliberately set to lure them into a trap.

Kootenai County Sheriff Robert Norris confirmed the deaths of two firefighters and the critical but stable condition of the third. Authorities utilized cell phone data to locate the suspected sniper. Due to the ongoing danger, fire crews were forced to retreat, leaving the brush fire to continue.

Idaho Governor Brad Little expressed his sorrow and condemned the attack, emphasizing the heroic nature of the firefighters. The FBI also responded to the scene, providing technical and tactical support.