Fact Check: Gunman ambushes firefighters, killing two and wounding a third
What We Know
On June 29, 2025, a tragic incident occurred in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, where a gunman ambushed firefighters responding to a wildfire. Local authorities reported that a man armed with a rifle intentionally started a fire on Canfield Mountain and then opened fire on the firefighters, resulting in the deaths of two and injuries to a third firefighter (NPR, New York Times). Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris confirmed that the attack was a "total ambush," stating that the firefighters "did not have a chance" (Washington Post).
The timeline of events indicates that the first reports of the wildfire came in at 1:21 PM local time, and firefighters began reporting gunfire approximately 40 minutes later (Reuters). The suspect's body was later found on the mountain with a firearm nearby, and authorities believe he acted alone (AP News).
Analysis
The evidence surrounding the incident is consistent across multiple reputable sources. The reports from NPR, the New York Times, and the Washington Post all confirm the key details: the intentional start of a wildfire, the ambush of firefighters, and the subsequent fatalities and injuries. Sheriff Norris's statements provide a clear narrative of the events, emphasizing the premeditated nature of the attack (NPR, New York Times).
The reliability of these sources is high, as they are established news organizations with a history of accurate reporting. The information has been corroborated by law enforcement officials and includes direct quotes from Sheriff Norris, which adds credibility to the claims made. Additionally, the FBI's involvement in the investigation further supports the seriousness of the incident and the ongoing efforts to understand the motives behind the attack (Washington Post).
Conclusion
The claim that a gunman ambushed firefighters, killing two and wounding a third, is True. The evidence from multiple credible sources confirms the details of the incident, including the intentional nature of the attack and the tragic outcomes for the firefighters involved.
