A tragic event unfolded at Kenfield Mountain near Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, where two firefighters lost their lives while combating a wildfire. Authorities later discovered a man's body armed with a firearm at the scene.

Source: The New York Times, CNN, Reuters

The incident took place during the day as firefighters worked to extinguish flames on Kenfield Mountain, a popular hiking destination.

Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris reported that rescuers and police came under fire from a sniper wielding powerful rifles, who targeted the firefighters. The assailant was concealed in thick brush and appeared to be well-prepared.

The SWAT team subsequently found the body of a man with a handgun nearby. Law enforcement is considering the possibility that the fire was intentionally set to lure responders into a trap.

Witnesses noted that at the onset of the shooting, firefighters pleaded for help after two of them sustained gunshot wounds. One firefighter indicated they were taking cover behind a fire truck, expressing concerns that the fire was deliberately ignited.

Norris mentioned that officers arriving at the scene reported hearing shots from various directions, suggesting multiple attackers may have been involved.

The wildfire is still ongoing. Local residents are advised to remain alert for official updates and to be prepared for potential evacuation if necessary.