Suspected Gunman Found Dead Near Firearm After Fatal Ambush of 2 Idaho Firefighters: Reports

**Suspected Gunman Found Dead After Fatal Ambush of 2 Firefighters**

A tragic incident unfolded in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, on Sunday, June 29, when two firefighters were fatally shot and another was injured in what authorities describe as an ambush by a lone gunman. Reports indicate that the firefighters were responding to a wildfire on Canfield Mountain when they were attacked by the assailant.

According to multiple news outlets, including NBC and CNN, the suspected gunman was later found dead near a firearm by members of a SWAT team approximately an hour after the attack. The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the discovery, bringing a chilling end to the harrowing ordeal.

Authorities were alerted to the situation when a cell phone was tracked to the location on Canfield Mountain, about 30 miles from Spokane, Washington. The intense response involved around 300 law enforcement officers who rushed to assist the firefighters who were under threat from the gunman.

The incident began around 1:30 p.m. when the firefighters received reports of a brush fire on Canfield Mountain. However, the routine call quickly turned into a life-threatening situation when they came under fire at around 2 p.m. Two firefighters tragically lost their lives, while a third was rushed to Coeur d’Alene hospital with injuries. The third firefighter is currently in stable condition, fighting for his life.

The suspected gunman is believed to have deliberately started the wildfire as a means to ambush the first responders, in what Sheriff Norris described as a premeditated act. The exchange of gunfire with the firefighters hindered their efforts to contain the blaze, ultimately scorching approximately 20 acres of Canfield Mountain.

The residents in the area were urged to remain vigilant as authorities worked to ensure the safety of the community amid the active wildfire. The investigation into the assailant’s death, including whether it was self-inflicted, remains ongoing. Additionally, details regarding the weapon found alongside the suspect have not been disclosed as part of the continuing investigation.

The Governor of Idaho, Brad Little, condemned the attack as a “heinous direct assault” on the brave firefighters and called for prayers for the victims and their families. Little also urged the public to steer clear of the area to allow law enforcement and firefighters to carry out their crucial duties effectively. The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office and Kootenai County Fire & Rescue have yet to provide additional comments on the incident.

The tragic events that unfolded in Idaho serve as a stark reminder of the dangers that first responders face in the line of duty. As the community grapples with this senseless act of violence, the investigation into the motives behind the ambush continues, and authorities are working tirelessly to ensure justice is served for the fallen firefighters.