Authorities say a lone gunman is responsible for the deadly ambush that left two firefighters dead and one seriously injured Sunday evening on Canfield Mountain. The suspect is confirmed dead.
The incident unfolded amid efforts to control a swift brush fire, prompting the deployment of nearly 300 law enforcement officers as things quickly escalated.
Sheriff Bob Norris provided a detailed timeline Monday, stating that law enforcement engaged in gunfire with the shooter. “We were working to make sense of everything,” he said. “During that time, we exchanged fire.”
According to Norris, the command post received real-time support from federal and state leaders. This included communication from the White House, the FBI, Governor Brad Little, and Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador.
“We had helicopters in the air. Snipers were cleared to fire if they had the opportunity,” Norris said.
By early evening, agencies were briefed that the threat was ongoing. The shooter’s location was later narrowed down through a phone signal that had remained static since 3:16 p.m.
“We found a male, deceased, with a weapon nearby,” Norris said. “A fire was rapidly moving toward the body, so we had to recover and relocate it for safety.”
Officials believe the man acted alone. No additional suspects are being sought.
Two firefighters were killed — one from Selkirk Fire, the other from Kootenai County Fire and Rescue. A third responder, also from Selkirk, underwent surgery and remains in stable condition.
What drove the gunman remains a mystery. Officials haven’t shared any further details about who he is.
“We believe the community is no longer in danger,” Norris said.
The investigation is ongoing.
