At least two firefighters were killed and multiple others injured during a violent ambush in Idaho's Kootenai County on Sunday, as authorities engaged in an ongoing standoff with armed assailants targeting emergency responders. The incident unfolded while crews battled a wildfire on a mountainside, complicating rescue efforts and escalating tensions in the region.
Kootenai County Sheriff Robert Norris confirmed the fatalities during a press conference, stating that law enforcement personnel were still receiving sniper fire while evacuating civilians from the area. "We are actively taking fire as we speak," Norris said, describing the attackers as showing "no evidence of wanting to surrender." He authorized officers to neutralize threats on sight, emphasizing the volatile nature of the operation.
The ambush occurred amid a wildfire that continues to rage uncontrolled, with authorities yet to determine the motive behind the attack. The incident marks one of the deadliest assaults on emergency responders in recent U.S. history, raising questions about responder safety in conflict zones.
As night fell, evacuation efforts remained underway for residents and tourists in the mountainous region, while firefighting operations were temporarily suspended due to security concerns. Federal agencies have joined local authorities in the investigation, though no suspect details have been released.
