Fact Check: Authorities suspect wildfire was set to lure firefighters into deadly trap
What We Know
On June 29, 2025, two firefighters were tragically killed in an ambush while responding to a wildfire near Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Reports indicate that the fire may have been intentionally set to lure firefighters into a vulnerable position, as stated by local authorities (New York Times). The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that a suspect was found deceased at the scene with a firearm nearby, and there were initial concerns about multiple shooters (People). Eyewitness accounts from firefighters indicated that they believed the fire was set intentionally, further supporting the suspicion of a trap (Hindustan Times).
Analysis
The claim that authorities suspect the wildfire was set to lure firefighters into a deadly trap is corroborated by multiple credible sources. The New York Times reported that the fire was still burning at the time of the ambush and that it appeared to be a deliberate act to draw in emergency responders (New York Times). Additionally, the sheriff's office noted that high-powered rifles were used in the attack, which adds to the severity and premeditated nature of the incident (People).
The reliability of these sources is high, as they are established news organizations with a history of accurate reporting. The New York Times and People magazine are known for their journalistic integrity and thorough fact-checking processes. Furthermore, the information was corroborated by eyewitness accounts from firefighters who were present during the incident, lending additional credibility to the claim (Hindustan Times).
Conclusion
The claim that authorities suspect the wildfire was set to lure firefighters into a deadly trap is True. The evidence from multiple reliable sources indicates that the fire was likely set intentionally to ambush emergency responders, as confirmed by eyewitness accounts and statements from local law enforcement.
