Fact Check: Gunman ambushes firefighters, killing two and wounding one in Idaho.

Fact Check: Gunman ambushes firefighters, killing two and wounding one in Idaho

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. According to reports, the assailant intentionally started a fire on Canfield Mountain and then opened fire on first responders, resulting in the deaths of two firefighters and injuries to a third (AP News, BBC). The shooting began approximately 30 minutes after firefighters arrived on the scene, with law enforcement stating that the gunman acted alone and used a high-powered rifle to carry out the attack (NBC News, Reuters).

The incident prompted a large response from law enforcement, including a tactical team that eventually located the suspect's body near the scene (Sky News). The Kootenai County Sheriff, Bob Norris, described the event as a "total ambush," emphasizing that the firefighters "did not have a chance" (BBC).

Analysis

The claim that a gunman ambushed firefighters in Idaho, resulting in two fatalities and one injury, is supported by multiple credible sources. The Associated Press, BBC, and NBC News all report similar details regarding the sequence of events, the nature of the ambush, and the casualties involved. The consistency across these reports enhances their reliability, as they corroborate each other on key facts, including the timeline of the incident and the actions of the gunman.

The sources used in this fact-check are reputable news organizations known for their journalistic standards. The Associated Press and BBC are particularly noted for their thorough reporting and fact-checking processes. The information provided by these outlets includes direct quotes from law enforcement officials, which adds to the credibility of the claims made (AP News, BBC).

However, it is important to note that while the initial reports are consistent, further investigations may provide additional context or details regarding the suspect's motives and the circumstances surrounding the attack. As of now, the available information confirms the occurrence of the ambush as described.

Conclusion

The claim that a gunman ambushed firefighters in Idaho, killing two and wounding one, is True. The evidence from multiple reliable sources confirms that the incident occurred as reported, with two firefighters fatally shot and a third injured during the ambush. The details provided by law enforcement and corroborated by various news outlets support the accuracy of this claim.

Fact Check: Gunman ambushes firefighters, killing two and wounding one in Idaho.