COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho – An active shooter situation has unfolded in Coeur d’Alene, targeting firefighters responding to a purposely set fire. The incident began near East Nettleton Gulch Road, east of Coeur d’Alene High School and north of Ponderosa Golf Course.
Northern Lakes Fire District Chief Pat Riley confirmed multiple firefighters were shot, sustaining gunshot wounds to the chest. Their conditions are currently unknown. Fire crews from Coeur d’Alene, Northern Lakes, and Kootenai County are at the scene, but fire suppression efforts are halted due to the ongoing threat.
“We trained for this. You never want to see it in your own community, but here we are,” Riley said.
Law enforcement agencies, including SWAT from Spokane County, are on-site, and roadblocks are in place.
Residents are advised to remain vigilant and avoid the area. No evacuations have been ordered, but readiness is recommended.
The fire, set intentionally to lure firefighters, remains uncontrolled due to the threat. Riley expressed concern over potential fire spread, though specifics are unavailable since crews can’t access the fire area.
Updates will be available on NonStop Local’s website and news stream. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and prepared for potential evacuations.
