Shooting Incident in Coeur d'Alene: The Full Story

2025-06-30

A tragic and shocking shooting incident in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, has left the local community and the entire nation reeling.

On Sunday afternoon, a deliberate ambush targeting first responders took place on Canfield Mountain, resulting in multiple casualties and a growing wildfire. Read the full chronology here!

Shooting Incident in Coeur d'Alene: The Chronology

The incident began around 1:21 p.m., when reports of a wildfire on Canfield Mountain first came in. Firefighters from both the Coeur d'Alene Fire Department and Kootenai County Fire & Rescue quickly responded.

However, within the hour, what appeared to be a standard wildfire emergency turned into a horrifying active shooter situation.

By 2 p.m., firefighters came under gunfire, leaving two firefighters dead and one critically injured. The injured firefighter underwent surgery and is currently in stable but serious condition.

The Gunman's Deadly Trap

According to Kootenai County Sheriff Robert Norris, the fire was likely intentionally set to lure first responders to the scene. The unidentified sniper had positioned himself in the area with the intent to ambush.

When authorities traced a cellphone signal, they were able to locate the gunman’s position. After an intense standoff, the shooter was found dead, with a firearm close by. His body had to be quickly retrieved by SWAT officers, as the fire was spreading dangerously near.

Sheriff Norris stated:

"This was a total ambush. These firefighters did not have a chance."

First Responders Faced Chaos

Emergency scanner recordings revealed the sheer panic and chaos on the ground. Firefighters could be heard urgently calling for law enforcement:

“Send law enforcement right now! There’s an active shooter zone!”

“Everybody’s shot up here!”

“Stop. Do not come up here.”

Multiple firefighting units were forced to retreat and establish a safer staging area about half a mile away. Life Flight helicopters, law enforcement from Spokane, Washington, and even federal agencies rushed to assist.

At one point, Sheriff Norris gave the green light to “shoot to kill” if officers got a clear shot at the gunman. Two helicopters with snipers were deployed, emphasizing the severity of the situation.

Facts about Shooting Incident in Coeur d'Alene

Here’s the facts about the shooting incident in Coeur d’Alene:

1. Fatalities and Injuries: Two firefighters were killed at the scene. Meanwhile, one firefighter was critically injured, now stable after surgery.

2. The Gunman: Found dead near the fire site. Suspected of starting the fire as a tactical trap. Believed to be the sole shooter, according to Sheriff Norris.

3. Emergency Response: Agencies from local, state, and federal levels assisted. USDA Forest Service, DHS, and even the FBI sent tactical units. Evacuation of the Fernan Gun Club was ordered due to the sniper threat.

Community Response of the Shooting Incident

Local residents and officials are heartbroken. Idaho Governor Brad Little called the event:

“A heinous, direct assault on our brave firefighters.”

He urged all Idahoans to pray for the victims and their families. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem also posted on social media, stating her department was actively monitoring the situation.

Meanwhile, residents like Mark Lathrop expressed concern about both the ongoing fire and the shooting:

“It’s very dry here, and the fire could spread fast.”

Shooting Incident Investigation Still Ongoing

Authorities are still working to secure the scene and recover additional weapons that may have been left behind by the shooter. The wildfire, now estimated to cover over 20 acres, is complicating the investigation.

Sheriff Norris has promised a full investigation into the shooter’s identity and motive. More updates are expected in the coming days.

Conclusion

The Shooting Incident in Coeur d'Alene is a painful reminder of the risks our first responders face daily.

As the community mourns, both local and federal law enforcement agencies are ensuring justice will be served. Investigations will continue, but for now, Idaho stands united in grief and support for its firefighters.

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FAQ

Where did the Coeur d'Alene shooting happen?

The incident occurred on Canfield Mountain, near Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.

How many casualties were there?

There were two confirmed firefighter fatalities and one critically injured firefighter.

Was the fire intentional?

Authorities believe the fire was intentionally set to lure first responders into an ambush.

Who was the shooter?

As of now, the gunman’s identity has not been released.

Is there still a threat to the community?

According to Sheriff Norris, there is no ongoing threat, and the gunman acted alone.

What’s being done next?

Investigators are still processing the scene, and efforts to contain the wildfire are ongoing.

How is the community responding?

Officials, including Governor Brad Little and DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, have expressed their condolences and promised full support for affected families.

Disclaimer: The content of this article does not constitute financial or investment advice.

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