2 dead, several shot after firefighters ambushed responding to Idaho blaze — cops trying to ‘neutralize’ ongoing threat

Two people were killed Sunday afternoon when firefighters responding to a brush fire in western Idaho were suddenly ambushed by gunfire, authorities said.

The burst of gunshots – which are still ongoing – erupted around 2 p.m. local time as first responders arrived at the scene of a fire at Canfield Mountain near Coeur d’Alene, according to the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office.

At least two people were killed after a gunman allegedly opened fire Sunday. KXLY

The two people killed in the shootout are believed to be firefighters – and several others are feared to be injured, Sheriff Bob Norris said.

Deputies have not yet determined whether there is a single shooter or multiple suspects involved but are prepared to “neutralize” the threat as quickly as possible, Norris added.

Police on the scene in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. KXLY

Idaho Gov. Brad Little urged the public to avoid the area, as shelter-in-place orders were issued for nearby residents.

“Multiple heroic firefighters were attacked today while responding to a fire in North Idaho,” Little said in a post on X.

“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.”

This is a breaking story. Please check back for updates.