COEUR D’ALENE, IDAHO – June 12, 2025
Imagine racing to save neighbors from danger—only to become targets yourselves. That’s the nightmare Coeur d’Alene firefighters faced Wednesday. While battling a brush fire near Canfield Mountain, these everyday heroes were ambushed by a hidden shooter. This Idaho shooting has left our community heartbroken but united.
What Happened?
Here’s what we know:
- 2:30 PM: Fire crews rushed to Canfield Mountain Road for a fire near me call.
- 2:37 PM: Loud cracks echoed—sniper fire hit their fire truck and the ground near them.
- Firefighters dove for cover. One suffered minor cuts scrambling to safety.
“It Was an Ambush,” Says Sheriff**
Kootenai County Sheriff Sam Woods’ voice shook: “Someone hid in the trees, aiming at these heroes. This wasn’t random—it was planned.” For hours, an active shooter in CDA, Idaho terrorized our quiet town. Schools are locked down. Families hid in bathtubs as helicopters circled.
Why Target Firefighters?**
Fire Chief Rosa Mendez fought tears: “They run toward emergencies—like last month’s Idaho fire that threatened homes. Today, they faced bullets instead of flames.” Trauma expert Dr. Evan Stone told KHQ News: “Attacking helpers scars their sense of safety. They’ll need our support.”
North Idaho Fights Back
While police hunted the Idaho sniper, something amazing happened:
- Kids drew “THANK U” posters at fire stations.
- Grocery stores delivered free pizza to responders.
- Neighbors lit porch lights—creating a “river of hope” across Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.
By the Numbers**
| Incident Detail | Fact |
|---|---|
| Firefighters targeted | 9 |
| Shots fired | Over 20 |
| Lockdown time | 4 hours |
| Community meals donated | 300+ |
Arrest Made – But Questions Remain
Around 6:45 PM, police arrested a suspect near Canfield Mountain. No motive is confirmed yet. The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office promises answers: “We’re studying every leaf and shell casing.”
How to Help Our Heroes
1️⃣ Share information: Call Kootenai County Sheriff’s Tip Line: (208) 446-1300
2️⃣ Support firefighters: Donate to North Idaho Heroes Fund (buys counseling sessions)
3️⃣ Feeling scared? Text “IDAHO” to 741741 for free help
Why This Matters
This firefighter shot in Idaho tragedy reminds us:
“Helpers need help too. When darkness strikes, we become each other’s light.”
– Pastor Amy Liang, Coeur d’Alene
Your turn, friends:
💙 Leave a comment below with support for our brave firefighters!
📱 Share this article to spread hope—not fear.
🕯️ Light a candle tonight to show: North Idaho stands together.
