Both US firefighters murdered in sniper trap
(MENAFN)
Two firefighters lost their lives in what authorities believe was a sniper ambush while responding to a wildfire on Canfield Mountain in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, on Sunday.
Two firefighters lost their lives in what authorities believe was a sniper ambush while responding to a wildfire on Canfield Mountain in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, on Sunday.
Emergency crews arrived at the scene around 1:30 p.m. local time, but within half an hour, gunfire was reported, according to the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office.
Sheriff Robert Norris told the press that a SWAT team was deployed and exchanged gunfire with the suspect. “We are currently under sniper fire,” he stated during the confrontation.
Later, officials confirmed that the suspected shooter was found dead on the mountain, with a firearm recovered nearby.
Lieutenant Jeff Howard informed ABC News that investigators are considering whether the wildfire was deliberately set to lure emergency responders into a deadly trap.
As shots rang out, hikers and other civilians fled the area, while some may have become trapped between the spreading fire and the gunman. A police helicopter attempted to assist but couldn’t land safely due to ongoing gunfire.
The FBI sent agents to provide tactical support, according to Deputy Director Dan Bongino.
Idaho Governor Brad Little denounced the attack, describing it as a “heinous and direct assault on our courageous firefighters.”
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the
information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept
any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images,
videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information
contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright
issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
Legal Disclaimer:
EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
