2025-06-29T23:19:18Z

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On a tragic Sunday afternoon, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, became the scene of a life-threatening incident when several firefighters were shot while responding to a brush fire that authorities now believe was set intentionally. Audio footage from a police scanner captured the urgent communications from the scene, indicating that the blaze was deliberately started to draw first responders into a dangerous trap.

During the chaotic moments, one firefighter was heard calling for law enforcement assistance, reporting, “Everyone is shot up here. We need law enforcement backup on the upper parking lot.” This alarming request underscored the gravity of the situation, revealing that several of his colleagues had sustained injuries. Additionally, it was disclosed that the suspect was armed with a shotgun, adding to the peril faced by the emergency personnel on site. As of now, officials have yet to confirm these details.

In light of the unfolding events, Kootenai County Emergency Management issued a directive for local residents to avoid the area surrounding the Canfield Mountain Natural Area, where the incident occurred, and advised them to shelter in place. This area, known for its beautiful hiking and biking trails, is currently under siege due to the ongoing active shooter situation amidst the still-burning fire.

Authorities have confirmed that they are actively searching for a suspect believed to be connected to the shooting incident. Flightradar’s tracking showed at least three law enforcement helicopters deployed to the scene in response to the emergency. FBI officials are also assisting local authorities as they investigate the possibility that the fire was strategically set to lure in firefighters, a tactic that raises serious concerns about public safety.

Kootenai County Emergency Management reinforced their safety message through a community alert, stating, “If you are in the area of Canfield Mountain Trailhead / Nettleton Gulch Rd. in CDA, SHELTER IN PLACE. If you are not, AVOID THE AREA due to Law Enforcement activity. Continue to monitor reliable sources for information, we will update with more information as soon as we receive it.”

Pat Riley, the Chief of Northern Lakes Fire Protection, expressed his deep sorrow over the incident, reflecting on the tragedy, “My immediate reaction was completely heartbroken. We trained for this. You never want to see it in your own community.” The Canfield Mountain Natural Area spans 24 acres and is characterized by its dense tree cover, which may have complicated the response efforts.