While I remain sick in bed, I cannot ignore what’s unfolding tonight in Idaho — an extremely serious and rapidly developing situation.
At least two people are dead and multiple firefighters have reportedly been shot in what authorities are calling an active shooter situation near Canfield Mountain in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. The shooting began around 2 p.m. local time on Sunday as firefighters were responding to a reported brush fire in the area.
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The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that shots were fired at first responders, and the suspect — or suspects — remain on the loose. Residents have been ordered to shelter in place, and the Sheriff has warned that if the attackers are not neutralized soon, “this could be a multi-day operation.”
“Active shooter at Canfield Mountain. Injuries are reported, but the extent is unknown. Avoid the area,” the Sheriff’s alert reads.
Idaho Governor Brad Little released a statement confirming that multiple firefighters were “attacked” while attempting to contain the fire.
“This is a heinous direct assault on our brave firefighters,” Gov. Little said. “I ask all Idahoans to pray for them and their families as we wait to learn more. Teresa and I are heartbroken.”
According to law enforcement sources, the FBI is now on the scene, along with federal tactical teams, providing operational support. The Department of Homeland Security has also been briefed. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has reportedly authorized rapid deployment of federal resources due to escalating sniper fire and the unclear number of suspects involved.
In a chilling moment at a press briefing earlier this evening, the Kootenai County Sheriff acknowledged that the shooters were showing no signs of surrender and warned that officers should be prepared to “take the shot and neutralize the threat” if a clear opportunity presents itself.
“We are not seeing any indication these individuals intend to surrender. This is a dangerous, fast-moving situation,” the Sheriff said.
Reports from the ground indicate that the firefight is ongoing and intermittent gunfire has been heard from multiple locations on Canfield Mountain, fueling concerns that more than one shooter may be involved. Local law enforcement has not ruled out the possibility of an orchestrated attack.
What We Know So Far:
Multiple firefighters were shot at around 2 p.m. while responding to a brush fire.
At least two fatalities have been confirmed.
Shooter(s) remain at large; shelter-in-place order in effect.
FBI, SWAT, and federal agencies are on scene.
The fire is still burning in the Canfield area.
Authorities fear a multi-day standoff may unfold if suspects are not captured soon.
This is one of the most serious active shooter emergencies involving first responders in recent years. The situation is still fluid, and I’ll continue to monitor and report as new information becomes available — even from bed.
Please stay safe, stay alert, and stay away from the area if you're in northern Idaho. My thoughts are with the victims, their families, and the first responders risking everything to protect the community.
— Aaron
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