'Pray For Idaho's First Responders': Kristi Noem Reacts To Firefighters Shot in Idaho

Two firefighters have been killed and several others injured after sniper fire ambushed emergency responders battling a brush fire in northern Idaho, United States.

The attack on Canfield Mountain, near Coeur d'Alene, left the area too dangerous to approach, halting firefighting efforts and prompting a nationwide outpouring of support.

Ambush on Canfield Mountain Sparks National Alarm

At around 1.30 p.m. local time on Sunday (9.30 p.m. BST), emergency responders were deployed to Canfield Mountain in northern Idaho following reports of a brush fire. Roughly 40 minutes later, gunfire erupted from hidden positions within dense woodland. Law enforcement officials described the situation as an active sniper attack and said multiple shooters may have been involved. The intensity of the assault halted firefighting efforts altogether.

Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris confirmed that two firefighters were killed at the scene. Several others, including police officers, sustained injuries, some of which were serious. The FBI and U.S. Marshals were dispatched to assist in what is believed to be a multi-day tactical operation.

Kristi Noem Leads National Call for Prayers and Support

Kristi Noem, current Department of Homeland Security Secretary who oversees federal emergency coordination, said she had been fully briefed on the incident. Speaking from Washington, she urged the public to 'pray for Idaho's first responders' and expressed solidarity with emergency crews and local officials.

Idaho Governor Brad Little echoed the sentiment, calling the ambush 'heinous direct assault on our brave firefighters'. He urged residents to support the affected families and to avoid speculation while the investigation unfolds.

Noem's call for public unity reflects a rare moment of federal attention to state-level emergency services, particularly in such a volatile and dangerous context.

Tactical Challenges and Community Impact

Authorities remain cautious in approaching the area due to the sniper threat. Sheriff Norris confirmed that firefighting teams have been pulled back and that tactical officers are working to neutralise the attackers before operations can resume.

Residents in nearby areas have been issued shelter-in-place orders, and local trailheads have been closed as a precaution. Officials say the fire continues to burn in inaccessible terrain, with containment efforts suspended indefinitely.

The ambush has sparked wider concerns about the safety of first responders, particularly in remote or forested areas. While incidents of deliberate violence against emergency workers remain rare, the attack has prompted renewed discussions about the risks they face.

Investigators have not confirmed whether the fire was deliberately set to lure crews to the scene, but early statements suggest a degree of premeditation. Authorities are also reviewing whether similar threats have been made in other parts of the state.

The situation on Canfield Mountain remains fluid, with multiple law enforcement agencies coordinating a tactical response. As the community mourns the loss of life and fears more violence, the call for national unity continues to resonate. The FBI has urged anyone with information to come forward, while fire services across the region have increased security around ongoing operations. Officials say further updates will be provided as the investigation develops.