Coeur d'Alene shooting: Two dead as firefighters and police 'take sniper fire' in ambush

Multiple firefighters and police officers were shot in a horrific ambush on Sunday after responding to an emergency call in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Hours into the attack, local sheriffs said "we're actively taking sniper fire as we speak," as they announced at least two deaths and an "unknown" number of injuries.

Emergency responders were met with gunfire upon arriving at the scene of a fire, prompting requests for backup from police in nearby Spokane. With the shooter still on the run, local residents are being urged to "shelter in place," due to "law enforcement activity."

Idaho's Governor has called the horrifying incident a "heinous dire assault" on the state's "brave firefighters." The public has also been advised to steer clear of the affected area due to the immediate danger and ongoing investigation, with the gunman still at large.

Evacuation procedures are underway in an area of rural Idaho, outside Coeur d'Alene, with police officers "taking sniper fire" in a mountainous walking area four miles north of the city. The ambusher's motives and identity are still unknown.

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Citizen.com stated that the incident began as an ambush, with an intentional fire set to attract the fire brigade, leading to at least two firefighters sustaining gunshot wounds, as heard over emergency radio channels

A declaration of a mass casualty incident has been made at the location by officials, reports the Mirror US. Kootenai County Sheriffs, announcing that at least two had died, has said they are believed to have been firefighters.

Northern Lakes Fire Protection Chief, Pat Riley, stated that firefighters received gunshots while tackling a bushfire near East Nettleton Gulch Road. Kootenai County Sheriff's Office cautioned locals via an alert: "Active shooter at Canfield Mountain. Injuries are reported, but the extent is unknown. Avoid the area."

Local media reports state that the incident unfolded around 1.50pm, when firefighters responding to a wildfire were shot at. At least one was critically injured and transported to hospital in a life-threatening condition.

They also suggest that police are investigating whether there is a second armed suspect, also on the loose.

NewsNation reporter Brian Entin, shortly before 6pm local time, described the local police department having more than one person cornered, but refusing to surrender. The reporter said: "Sheriff in Idaho says shooters are not showing any sign of wanting to surrender -- he is encouraging officers who can get a clear shot to 'take the shot and neutralize the threat.'"

While emergency responders sheltered from bullets, eyewitness accounts flooded social media, describing hearing numerous gunshots. A local, A Wilson, posted on X: "I live in Coeur d'alene ID. Some nut job set a fire and when firefighters showed up, he started shooting. Several shot.

"Then police showed up and they were shot. No word on their condition. Over 65 fire trucks, police, SWAT and 1 helicopter there. 15th street is blocked southbound."

Hours after the ambush began, Shoshone County Sheriff Office said that the shooter was still on the run. They warned residents: "If you can, please avoid Couer D Alene at the moment as we are dealing with an active shooter situation where the shooter is still at large."

Idaho's Governor Brad Little said: "Multiple heroic firefighters were attacked today while responding to a fire in North Idaho. This is a heinous direct assault on our brave firefighters.

"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."