Fact Check: "Wildfire was likely set to lure firefighters into a deadly ambush."
What We Know
On June 29, 2025, two firefighters were killed in an ambush while responding to a wildfire near Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Reports indicate that the wildfire may have been intentionally set to draw firefighters into a vulnerable position for the attack. The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the ambush involved sniper fire, with high-powered rifles being used against the firefighters (New York Times). Eyewitness accounts and emergency communications suggested that firefighters suspected the fire was set deliberately to lure them in (CBS News).
During the incident, emergency responders were under gunfire, and one firefighter reported hiding behind a firefighting rig while pleading for help. The sheriff indicated that the attack was premeditated, as the fire was still burning when the shooting occurred (USA Today). The FBI was involved in the investigation, confirming the complexity and severity of the situation (CBS News).
Analysis
The claim that the wildfire was likely set to lure firefighters into a deadly ambush is supported by multiple credible sources. The New York Times reported that officials stated the fire appeared to have been intentionally set to attract firefighters, corroborating the notion of a premeditated attack (New York Times). Additionally, eyewitness accounts from the scene indicated that firefighters believed they were targeted due to the fire's suspicious nature (CBS News).
The reliability of these sources is high, as they include statements from law enforcement officials and direct accounts from those involved in the incident. The New York Times and CBS News are established news organizations known for their investigative reporting, lending credibility to their coverage of the event.
However, it is important to note that while the evidence strongly supports the claim, the investigation is ongoing, and definitive conclusions about the motives behind the fire and ambush may evolve as more information becomes available.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The evidence indicates that the wildfire was likely set intentionally to lure firefighters into a deadly ambush. Multiple sources confirm that the attack was premeditated, with eyewitness accounts supporting the idea that the fire was a trap. Given the credible reporting from reliable news organizations and the statements from law enforcement, the claim stands as true.
