In a shocking incident in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, two firefighters were tragically killed and another was injured after an armed assailant ambushed them. Authorities believe the ambush was premeditated, as the suspect allegedly set a brush fire to draw the firefighters to the scene.
The suspect was found dead later that evening, according to law enforcement officials.
Residents of the area, such as Debbie Essman, expressed disbelief at the violence that unfolded in their neighborhood. Essman recalled watching the fire on Canfield Mountain while adhering to a shelter-in-place order, describing the situation as something that has left the community in shock. “I think people are relieved that it’s over and can’t believe it happened,” she stated. The act was characterized as a heinous crime by many, with residents struggling to comprehend the motives behind such violence.
The incident occurred in a wooded area on the outskirts of Coeur d’Alene at around 1:21 p.m. local time on Sunday. Firefighters from the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department and other local agencies quickly responded to reports of a fire on the mountain, which is known for its recreational hiking and biking trails among dense pine and fir trees.
The firefighters arrived on the scene at approximately 1:30 p.m., and within half an hour, they reported that they were under fire. Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris confirmed that the fire was part of an orchestrated plan to ambush the responders. “We do believe the suspect started the fire; it was an ambush and it was totally intentional,” Norris explained during a press briefing.
The two fallen firefighters were affiliated with the Coeur d’Alene and Kootenai County fire departments. The third firefighter, who was injured, underwent surgery and is currently in critical condition. Sheriff Norris described the shooter as a sniper who strategically concealed himself in the rugged terrain, suggesting the attack had been carefully planned.
The ambush unfolded over several hours, resulting in a shelter-in-place order being issued for the surrounding area. It wasn’t until late Sunday evening that officials felt it was safe to lift the order. At about 3:15 p.m., law enforcement detected an active cellphone signal on the mountain, which remained stationary for an extended period. SWAT officers were later able to locate the suspect’s body and a weapon was recovered nearby.
The sheriff declined to discuss specifics regarding the cause of the suspect’s death, stating that marking the crime scene was a priority. No clear motive for the ambush has been shared publicly. Further investigations began on Monday, although officials noted that the ongoing fire had complicated the crime scene.
Idaho Governor Brad Little condemned the incident as a “heinous direct assault on our brave firefighters,” while Attorney General Pam Bondi extended gratitude to federal agents for their assistance to local authorities in Idaho.
As the investigation continues, the community reels from the tragic loss, further questioning how and why such violence could occur against those who courageously serve to protect others.
image source from：npr
