Two Firefighters Fatally Shot During Wildfire Response on Canfield Mountain; Manhunt Underway for Suspects

COEUR D’ALENE, ID — In a deeply tragic and shocking turn of events, two firefighters were killed Saturday afternoon after coming under gunfire while responding to a wildfire on Canfield Mountain in Kootenai County. The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the fatalities and announced that multiple suspects remain at large, sparking an urgent manhunt and sending waves of grief and outrage through the community.

A Routine Response Turns Deadly

The deadly incident occurred during what was expected to be a routine wildfire containment operation in the rugged terrain of Canfield Mountain, just outside the city of Coeur d’Alene. Fire crews had been dispatched to combat a brush fire that had sparked in the dry, wooded area popular with hikers and mountain bikers. While details are still emerging, authorities say the situation escalated rapidly when gunfire erupted, targeting first responders on the scene.

Two firefighters — whose names are being withheld pending family notification — were struck by bullets and later pronounced dead. Despite the best efforts of emergency medical personnel on site, both succumbed to their injuries.

The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office, supported by multiple local and federal law enforcement agencies, has launched a full-scale investigation into the shootings and is actively searching for the individuals responsible.

Suspects on the Run

While authorities have not released specific information about the suspects, including potential motives or identities, Sheriff’s officials confirmed that multiple individuals are believed to have fled the area following the shooting. A manhunt is now underway, with search efforts focused on the wooded mountain and surrounding regions.

Residents near Canfield Mountain have been advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Law enforcement has established roadblocks and increased patrols in the area. Drones and helicopters have also been deployed to aid in the search.

“This is a horrific and senseless tragedy,” said Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris in a press statement Saturday evening. “These firefighters were doing their job—protecting our community—and were met with violence that defies understanding. We will not rest until those responsible are brought to justice.”

Grief and Outrage Across the Region

News of the fatal shootings has sent shockwaves through Idaho’s firefighting and emergency services community, as well as the residents of Kootenai County who have long relied on the bravery of their local fire personnel. Tributes and condolences began pouring in just hours after the incident was confirmed.

“These heroes gave their lives to protect others. We stand with their families, their departments, and the entire firefighting community in mourning their loss,” said Idaho Governor Brad Little, who called the attack “an assault on every Idahoan.”

Flags have been ordered to fly at half-staff across the state in honor of the fallen firefighters. A candlelight vigil is being planned in downtown Coeur d’Alene in the coming days to honor their memory and offer support to grieving families.

Investigation and Next Steps

At this time, investigators are working to piece together the exact sequence of events that led to the fatal confrontation. The FBI and ATF have joined the case due to the nature of the attack and the potential involvement of firearms on federal land. The wildfire operation on Canfield Mountain has been suspended, and the area remains an active crime scene.

The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information, dashcam footage, or knowledge of suspicious individuals in the area during the time of the shooting to come forward. A reward is expected to be announced soon for tips that lead to an arrest.

Remembering the Fallen

While their names have yet to be released publicly, the fallen firefighters are being remembered by colleagues as dedicated public servants who loved their work, their team, and their mission to protect others at any cost. Fellow firefighters have placed black bunting over station doors, and many departments across the Pacific Northwest are expected to take part in upcoming memorial services.

“These were not just firefighters. They were family,” said one department spokesperson. “They ran toward danger, not away from it. We’ll never forget that courage.”

Anyone with information related to this case is urged to contact the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office Tip Line at (208) 446-1300. In an emergency, dial 911.