Fact Check: The sniper used a high-powered rifle to ambush firefighters in rugged terrain.

Fact Check: "The sniper used a high-powered rifle to ambush firefighters in rugged terrain."

What We Know

On June 30, 2025, a tragic incident occurred in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, where two firefighters were killed and a third was seriously injured after being ambushed by a gunman who had intentionally set a brush fire to lure them to the scene. The Kootenai County Sheriff, Bob Norris, confirmed that the suspect used a high-powered rifle and was concealed in the rugged terrain of Canfield Mountain during the attack. The sheriff described the ambush as "totally intentional," indicating that the firefighters had no chance to defend themselves (NPR, Politico).

The area where the incident took place is characterized by dense pine and fir forests, making it a challenging environment for first responders (NPR). The gunman was reportedly well-prepared for the landscape, suggesting that he had planned the ambush in advance (NPR, NewsNation).

Analysis

The claim that "the sniper used a high-powered rifle to ambush firefighters in rugged terrain" is supported by multiple credible sources. The Kootenai County Sheriff explicitly stated that the shooter was armed with a high-powered rifle and had positioned himself strategically in the rugged terrain to carry out the ambush (NPR, Politico). This indicates a level of premeditation and tactical awareness on the part of the gunman.

However, while the term "sniper" is used in some reports, it is essential to clarify that the definition of a sniper typically implies a trained marksman who operates at long ranges, often with military or specialized law enforcement training. The reports do not provide specific details about the shooter's background or training, which raises questions about the appropriateness of labeling him as a "sniper." The use of the term may also reflect a sensationalized portrayal of the event (NewsNation, The Hill).

The sources reporting on this incident, including NPR and Politico, are generally reliable and have a history of accurate reporting. However, the framing of the shooter as a "sniper" could be seen as an attempt to evoke a more dramatic narrative, which may not fully align with the actual circumstances of the attack.

Conclusion

The claim that "the sniper used a high-powered rifle to ambush firefighters in rugged terrain" is Partially True. While it accurately describes the use of a high-powered rifle and the rugged terrain, the characterization of the shooter as a "sniper" lacks sufficient context regarding his training and intentions. The incident was indeed a tragic ambush, but the terminology used may not fully encapsulate the nature of the attack.

Fact Check: The sniper used a high-powered rifle to ambush firefighters in rugged terrain.