Fact Check: Two firefighters ambushed and killed in shocking sniper attack in Idaho.

Fact Check: "Two firefighters ambushed and killed in shocking sniper attack in Idaho."

What We Know

On June 29, 2025, two firefighters were tragically killed while responding to a wildfire on Canfield Mountain in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. According to reports, a man armed with a rifle intentionally started the fire and then ambushed the firefighters as they arrived on the scene. Local authorities confirmed that the incident was a deliberate attack, with Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris stating, "We do believe the suspect started the fire, it was an ambush and it was totally intentional" (NPR). The shooter was later found dead on the mountain, and a weapon was recovered nearby, leading authorities to believe he was the only shooter involved in the incident (Reuters).

Analysis

The claim that two firefighters were ambushed and killed in Idaho is supported by multiple credible news sources. The details of the incident have been consistently reported across various outlets, including NPR, Reuters, and The Guardian, all of which confirm the sequence of events leading to the fatalities (NPR, Reuters, The Guardian).

Sheriff Norris's statements provide a clear account of the attack, emphasizing that the firefighters were caught off guard and had no chance to defend themselves. This assertion is corroborated by eyewitness accounts and the timeline of the events, which indicate that the firefighters were shot shortly after arriving at the scene (NPR, The Guardian).

The reliability of these sources is high, as they are established news organizations with a history of accurate reporting. They have provided detailed coverage of the incident, including official statements from law enforcement and local government officials.

However, it is important to note that while the initial reports indicate a single shooter, further investigations may reveal additional details about the circumstances surrounding the attack and the motivations of the perpetrator. As of now, the evidence supports the claim that this was a targeted ambush against the firefighters.

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The claim that two firefighters were ambushed and killed in Idaho is accurate. Multiple credible sources confirm that the incident was a deliberate attack by an armed individual who started a fire and then shot at the responding firefighters, resulting in their deaths. The consistency of reports from reliable news outlets further substantiates this tragic event.

Fact Check: Two firefighters ambushed and killed in shocking sniper attack in Idaho.