Fact Check: Firefighters attacked while battling an active blaze in rugged terrain
What We Know
On June 29, 2025, two firefighters were killed in an ambush while responding to a fire in a rugged area near Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. According to reports, the firefighters were targeted by sniper fire as they attempted to manage the blaze, which had been reported around 1:21 PM local time. Sheriff Bob Norris of Kootenai County confirmed that the firefighters were "taking sniper fire" during an active shooter situation, and he indicated that there may have been multiple attackers involved (New York Times, ABC Australia). Eyewitness accounts and emergency audio revealed that firefighters were hiding behind their equipment and calling for assistance as the shooting unfolded (New York Times).
The incident prompted a significant law enforcement response, with authorities warning the public to shelter in place due to the ongoing danger. Governor Brad Little condemned the attack, describing it as a "heinous direct assault" on firefighters (ABC Australia).
Analysis
The claim that firefighters were attacked while battling an active blaze in rugged terrain is supported by multiple credible sources. Reports from the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office and various news outlets consistently describe the situation as an ambush involving sniper fire directed at firefighters responding to a wildfire. Sheriff Norris's statements about the nature of the attack and the ongoing danger to emergency personnel lend credibility to the reports (New York Times, ABC Australia).
The reliability of the sources is high, given that they include statements from local law enforcement and government officials, as well as eyewitness accounts. The urgency of the situation, characterized by active shooter protocols and immediate public safety alerts, further validates the claims made in these reports (ABC Australia, ABC7).
Conclusion
The claim that firefighters were attacked while battling an active blaze in rugged terrain is True. The evidence from multiple reliable sources confirms that two firefighters were killed in a sniper ambush while responding to a fire in a mountainous area near Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. The nature of the attack, characterized by sniper fire and the involvement of law enforcement, underscores the severity of the situation.
Sources
- 2 Firefighters Killed in Idaho Sniper Ambush, Officials Say
- At least two firefighters killed by 'sniper fire' while battling ...
- At least 2 killed after Idaho firefighters ambushed by gunfire ...
- 2 killed in sniper ambush as Idaho firefighters come ... - KOLD
- 2 killed in sniper ambush as Idaho firefighters come under ...
- Firefighters shot at in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho
- Sniper attack in US state of Idaho kills two firefighters ...
