Sniper Found Dead After Ambush Kills Two Firefighters Battling Idaho Wildfire

A tragic ambush in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho claimed the lives of two firefighters and left another injured as they responded to a wildfire near Canfield Mountain. Authorities have now confirmed the suspected gunman was later found dead by a SWAT team, with a firearm nearby.

The horrifying attack occurred Sunday while the firefighters were working near East Nettleton Gulch Road. Without warning, gunfire erupted, striking three of the first responders. Two of them were killed on the spot, and the third was rushed into surgery and is now in stable condition. Officials believe the fire was deliberately set by the shooter to lure and ambush the emergency crews.

Authorities quickly launched an intensive manhunt, deploying over 300 law enforcement officers, including the FBI, who assisted with tactical and technical support. The suspect’s cellphone signal helped police track his location. The man’s body was discovered by the SWAT team on Canfield Mountain, with a high-powered rifle nearby. The cause of death is under investigation and will be confirmed by the coroner, but he was not killed by police.

Kootenai County Sheriff Robert Norris described the situation as a calculated attack. “This was a total ambush. These firefighters did not have a chance,” he said during a press briefing. Evidence gathering was made difficult due to the spreading wildfire, prompting crews to retrieve the suspect’s body before the fire could compromise the scene.

Authorities also confirmed that modern high-powered sporting rifles were used in the attack. The FBI, White House, and Idaho Governor Brad Little's office have all been closely involved in the response. In a public statement, Governor Little called the act “a heinous direct assault on our brave firefighters,” while Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador expressed that this tragedy “should never happen.”

Emergency crews continued working through the night to contain the fire while maintaining a secure perimeter. Residents in the vicinity were urged to stay away as the area remains volatile.

This deeply disturbing incident has rocked the local community and highlighted the risks faced daily by first responders. Authorities continue their investigation to determine all circumstances leading up to the deadly ambush.