**Two brave firefighters lost their lives while confronting gunfire during a brush fire response, prompting a statewide call for prayers and assistance.**
**Tragic Shootings in Idaho: Two Firefighters Killed Responding to Brush Fire**
**Tragic Shootings in Idaho: Two Firefighters Killed Responding to Brush Fire**
**Law enforcement struggles to contain active shooter situation near Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.**
In a heartbreaking incident unfolding in Idaho, two individuals have been fatally shot while actively responding to a brush fire near Coeur d'Alene. According to the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office, the situation escalated when an active shooter opened fire with a high-powered rifle against law enforcement personnel. Sheriff Robert Norris confirmed real-time sniper fire was reported, with officers being targeted from multiple angles.
Authorities are investigating the scene, which is located near Canfield Mountain, where residents are advised to stay clear to ensure the safety of both bystanders and emergency responders. FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino noted that agents are on the ground to provide tactical support as the situation continues to develop.
Idaho Governor Brad Little condemned the attack on the firefighters, calling it a "heinous direct assault" on those who bravely serve the community. He urged all Idahoans to keep the victims and their families in their thoughts as more information becomes available.
Sheriff Norris revealed during a press briefing that the exact number of shooters is still unknown, stating, "We don't know if there's one, two, three, or four shooters at the scene." He also shared that there may be civilians present in the area, which complicates the scenario as law enforcement tries to calculate the potential risks.
The emergency call regarding the brush fire was received shortly after 1:22 PM local time, and by 2:00 PM, firefighters found themselves under gunfire as they worked to contain the blaze. Pat Riley, the local fire chief, expressed his heartbreak over the incident, emphasizing the dangers firefighters face.
In light of the ongoing chaos, the Kootenai County Emergency Management Office has issued alerts urging people to avoid the Canfield Mountain Trailhead and nearby roads as authorities work to restore order.
