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Deadly Attack on Emergency Responders
In a shocking incident near Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, two firefighters were fatally shot and another critically injured while responding to a reported wildfire on June 30, 2025. According to the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office, the emergency crew came under sniper fire from nearby woods shortly after arriving at the scene around 1:30 PM local time.
Massive Manhunt and Investigation
Approximately 300 law enforcement officers, including SWAT teams and aerial sharpshooters in two helicopters, launched an extensive search operation. The manhunt was severely complicated by the ongoing wildfire, which had expanded to cover an area equivalent to ten soccer fields. Authorities later discovered a deceased male suspect in a nearby nature preserve after tracking a cell phone signal, with a firearm found adjacent to the body.
Evidence Recovery Amid Flames
"We faced the dual challenge of apprehending a dangerous suspect while crucial evidence was threatened by advancing flames," stated the Sheriff. Investigators were forced to rapidly remove the body before it could be consumed by the wildfire. The suspect's identity and motive remain unknown at this time.
Deliberate Ambush Tactics
Authorities believe the wildfire may have been intentionally set to lure emergency responders into a trap. "These firefighters had no warning or chance to defend themselves," the Sheriff reported, noting the challenging terrain of dense underbrush that provided cover for the assailant. The surviving firefighter remains in critical but stable condition.
Regional Context and Response
Coeur d'Alene, located in northern Idaho approximately 30 miles east of Spokane, Washington, is a region known for its rugged forested terrain and outdoor recreation. Idaho Governor Brad Little condemned the attack as "a horrific and direct assault on our brave first responders" in an official statement. This incident marks one of the deadliest intentional attacks on firefighters in recent U.S. history, highlighting the increasing dangers faced by emergency personnel beyond natural disasters.
