2 firefighters, gunman dead after Idaho wildfire ambush

(Daily Caller News Foundation) – Two firefighters were killed and a third was fighting for his life Sunday when an active shooter ambushed fire crews responding to a wildfire near Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

Law enforcement discovered the suspect’s body and a firearm nearby Sunday night, according to Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris, who said officials believe the suspect started the fire to lure firefighters before shooting at them.

Republican Gov. Brad Little of Idaho responded to the active shooter incident in a statement posted on X Sunday. The International Association of Firefighters confirmed two firefighters were killed and a third was in surgery in a Sunday night post on X.

“While responding to a fire earlier today in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, IAFF members were ambushed in a heinous act of violence. Two of our brothers were killed by a sniper, and a third brother remains in surgery,” the union posted. “Please keep them, their families, and law enforcement in your prayers.”

“Multiple heroic firefighters were attacked today while responding to a fire in North Idaho. This is a heinous direct assault on our brave firefighters.” Little posted. “I ask all Idahoans to pray for them and their families as we wait to learn more. Teresa and I are heartbroken. As this situation is still developing, please stay clear from the area to allow law enforcement and firefighters to do their jobs.”

FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino said FBI assets were en route to the scene to provide “tactical and operational support.”

“FBI assets are headed to the scene in Coeur d’Alene to provide tactical and operational support. It is an active scene,” Bongino posted on X.

Kootenei County Sheriff Robert Norris said during a press conference that law enforcement personnel were still being fired upon.

“It is going to be a tough next couple of hours, absolutely,” Norris said. “I’m hoping that somebody has a clear shot, and is able to neutralize. Because they are not, at this point in time, showing any evidence of wanting to surrender. So as soon as somebody has a clear shot, I encourage them to take that shot, neutralize the threat.”