Highlighting the growing dangers faced by America’s heroes on the front lines, a criminal targeted first responders who came to protect a community.
Specifically, two brave firefighters were murdered in a cowardly ambush attack after a gunman intentionally set a wildfire to lure them in.
The horrific attack unfolded in the mountain community of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, when firefighters responded to a blaze at Canfield Mountain.
Upon arrival, they were met with a barrage of gunfire from a lone shooter who had purposefully started the fire as a trap.
The ambush killed two firefighters and wounded another as they attempted to protect nearby homes and forest land.
Sheriff Bob Norris of Kootenai County confirmed the deliberate nature of the attack.
He stated, “We do believe that the suspect started the fire. This was a total ambush. These firefighters did not have a chance.”
More than 300 law enforcement officers, including helicopter units with snipers, responded to the scene as the gunman continued firing for several hours.
The massive response included FBI tactical support teams who worked alongside local authorities.
During the attack, residents were ordered to shelter in place for seven hours while officers tracked down the shooter.
The fire, which grew to about 20 acres, complicated rescue and response efforts.
Helicopters with heat-seeking technology struggled to locate the suspect due to smoke from the wildfire.
Firefighting aircraft were also unable to assist with extinguishing the blaze due to the ongoing threat from the gunman.
Law enforcement eventually used cell phone data to track the suspect to a wooded area where they discovered his body with a firearm nearby as flames approached.
Officials have not yet disclosed whether the gunman was killed by officers or took his own life, and his identity remains undisclosed pending further investigation.
Idaho Governor Brad Little condemned the attack as a “heinous direct assault” on firefighters.
Idaho House Republican Leadership expressed horror at the targeted violence against first responders who were simply doing their duty to protect the community.
The attack has shocked the normally peaceful community of Coeur d’Alene, a popular tourist destination located 260 miles east of Seattle.
Local residents expressed disbelief that such violence could occur in their town, particularly against firefighters who risk their lives daily to protect others.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the increasing dangers faced by America’s first responders.
While they stand ready to protect communities from natural disasters, they now must also deal with the threat of deliberate violence.
