COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho — A horrifying ambush unfolded in Kootenai County, where multiple firefighters were shot while responding to a wildfire, in what authorities now suspect was a deliberately set trap.

According to Kootenai County Sheriff’s Lt. Jeff Howard, firefighters came under immediate gunfire as they arrived at the scene of a brush fire near East Nettleton Gulch Road, in the Canfield Mountain area.

The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed an active shooter situation, and law enforcement agencies are engaged in a large-scale search for the gunman.

Scanner traffic captured during the initial response reveals the chaotic and dangerous conditions faced by first responders.

One transmission stated:

“There’s an active shooter zone! They’re shot down. BC3’s down, BC1’s down. Everybody’s shot up here. Law enforcement, Code 3 now up here! … Get out of the way. Engine Brush 551, do not come up here.”

Authorities say the fire may have been intentionally ignited to lure in emergency personnel, who were then ambushed by the shooter.

Multiple firefighters were hit by gunfire. While the total number of victims has not been officially confirmed, fire and police radio traffic indicate several injuries among first responders, with at least one medical helicopter dispatched for evacuation.

Two Spokane County Sheriff’s helicopters are currently assisting with the aerial search for the suspect, who remains at large.

A possible suspect vehicle has been located near the scene, though no arrests have been reported.

As a result of the active shooter threat, fire crews were forced to withdraw from the area, leaving the wildfire still actively burning in at least two major sections.

The full extent of the damage caused by the fire remains unknown, and the safety of remaining personnel in the area is a top concern.

The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office has issued an emergency alert to the public:

“Active shooter at Canfield Mountain. Injuries are reported, but the extent is unknown. Avoid the area.”

Residents are strongly advised to stay away from the Canfield Mountain area, remain indoors, and follow instructions from local authorities as the situation continues to develop.

The Northern Lakes Fire Protection District, Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office, and multiple regional agencies are actively responding.

Updates will be provided as more confirmed information becomes available.