Two firefighters were shot and killed while responding to a brush fire near Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, after gunfire erupted on Canfield Mountain. Authorities say an active shooter remains at large, with law enforcement and federal agents responding to the dangerous and developing situation.
COEUR D’ALENE, ID (2-minute read) — A tragic and chaotic scene unfolded Sunday afternoon near Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, when two firefighters were shot and killed while responding to a brush fire on Canfield Mountain. According to Kootenai County Sheriff Robert Norris, an active shooter armed with a high-powered rifle opened fire on first responders shortly after they arrived at the scene of the blaze.
The initial emergency call reporting the fire came in at 1:22 p.m., and by 2:00 p.m., gunfire had broken out. Sheriff Norris confirmed the incident involved at least one sniper, and possibly more. Officers on the ground reported taking rounds from multiple directions, forcing them into a defensive posture as the fire continued to burn.
🚨 NOW: Heavily armored law enforcement units have just arrived on scene in Idaho
Many federal agencies are now on scene, including FBI, DHS, and the US Forest Service.
This coward is going to be annihilated. pic.twitter.com/9OiA9PCtod
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) June 30, 2025
Authorities believe the deceased were members of the firefighting crew who arrived to contain the brush fire. Sheriff Norris described the attack as a “direct assault” on public servants trying to protect the community. “They are not showing any signs of surrender. I hope someone gets a clear shot to neutralize this threat,” he told reporters.
Active Shooter on Canfield Mountain
Canfield Mountain, a popular outdoor area with numerous hiking and biking trails, is now the center of a massive tactical operation. Law enforcement, including agents from the FBI, are coordinating efforts to locate and stop the shooter or shooters. Civilians are believed to still be on the mountain, which has complicated the response and elevated the danger.
Governor Brad Little issued a statement calling the attack “heinous,” and urged Idahoans to keep the victims and their families in their prayers. “This is a direct assault on our brave firefighters,” he said.
As of this writing, officials have not confirmed how many shooters are involved or if any suspects have been apprehended. The wildfire continues to burn while emergency crews maintain caution under the threat of continued gunfire.
Residents have been asked to steer clear of the Canfield Mountain Trailhead and surrounding roads including Nettleton Gulch. The Kootenai County Emergency Management Office has issued alerts urging the public to avoid the area entirely.
Safety Tip: Always be aware of your surroundings when responding to emergencies in remote or open areas. If you carry a concealed firearm, ensure you have appropriate training and a clear understanding of local laws and how to act under duress.
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