‘Our hearts go out to Idaho’: Fire service, government leaders react to firefighter ambush

Following Sunday’s unthinkable ambush on Idaho first responders, which resulted in the deaths of two firefighters, fire service and government leaders reflected on the tragedy.

Some fire service leaders and organization representatives sent reactions directly to FireRescue1, while others shared their condolences on social media. We will update this story as the outpouring of support continues.

National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

“The NFFF extends its deepest condolences to the families, colleagues and communities of the two firefighters who were tragically ambushed and killed, and to the third firefighter seriously wounded. This heinous act, where a gunman deliberately set the fire as bait and opened fire, represents one of the most shocking attacks in recent memory against the bravest among us.

“We ask our nation to join us in expressing gratitude for these heroes. Let us light a candle, offer a moment of silence, and bring communities together in solidarity. May their sacrifice serve as a powerful reminder of the courage it takes to be a firefighter, and of our collective responsibility to protect and uplift those who protect us.

“The NFFF stands united in honoring the selflessness and courage of these fallen heroes. Firefighters face danger every day in service to their communities; this incident underscores the layer of risk they accept when disaster strikes. We mourn the loss of these dedicated public servants whose willingness to protect others cost them their lives.

“We pledge unwavering support to the families of the fallen who have endured unimaginable grief, and to the injured firefighter, currently in stable condition after surgery, as they recover physically and mentally. We stand with fire departments across Idaho and nationwide, especially the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department and Kootenai County Fire and Rescue, whose members were directly impacted. When they fall, we rise.

“We urge lawmakers and community leaders to recognize and address the escalating threats faced by firefighters. This deliberate ambush is not only an attack on individuals, it is an assault on all who stand ready to serve. Appropriate measures must be taken to:

1. Enhance safety protocols during wildfire responses.
2. Ensure access to critical mental health and trauma support services for survivors and colleagues.
3. Strengthen legal protections and penalties for those who target first responders.”

Marc Bashoor, FireRescue1 senior advisor; retired fire chief

“While the details of the tragic Idaho firefighters shooting continue to unfold, what we know already is chilling. The audio recordings immediately after shots rang out paint a horribly active scene for firefighters responding to a brush fire.

“This is eerily similar to the 2012 attack in Webster, New York. In that case, two firefighters were shot and killed as they responded with others to a structure fire. The gunman apparently lay in wait on a knoll for firefighters to arrive. Seven houses ended up burning and the gunman was also dead.

“While the fire service really began paying attention to active shooters after the Columbine High School shooting in Colorado, many of our current active assailant protocols and training date back to incidents like Webster.

“Attacks on firefighters and paramedics are steadily increasing. In April 2025, firefighter-paramedic Graham Hoffman was stabbed to death in the back of her Kansas City (Missouri) ambulance. Separately, and while possibly not an ‘attack,’ an Arlington (Texas) firefighter was shot while responding to welfare check call in March 2024. That firefighter survived. Additionally, two of my firefighters were shot in Maryland in 2016 while responding to a welfare check. On that call, John ‘Skillet’ Ulmschneider was killed. The other firefighter survived. And in 2020, two Jacksonville (Florida) firefighters were stabbed in the back of an ambulance. They both survived.

“We all know this, but it bears repeating as often as is necessary: Keep your head on a swivel, and make sure your active assailant protocols are fresh and practiced. You should train on them just like you should be for throwing ladders or pulling hoselines. Our lives depend on it.”

Jason Caughey, FireRescue1 senior advisor; fire chief, Laramie County (Wyo.) Fire Authority

“Yesterday’s events brought back the same emotions that I had during 9/11 — anger, fear and sorrow.

“As firefighters, we signed up willing to sacrifice our lives by placing ourselves between fire and community. Our sacrifice is never questioned. The bravery of the individuals who responded to a routine call and then found themselves in the middle of a catastrophic event demonstrated the true meaning of who we are as a fire service — dedication, commitment and sacrifice.

“My heart goes out to the families of all involved and to all responding agencies. Prayers for the Idaho fire service.”

Kris Blume, fire chief, Meridian (Idaho) Fire Department

“Firefighting is more than a job — it’s a bond, a calling, a commitment to one another. Idaho is a close-knit fire service community, When one hurts, we all hurt. Today, we remember the courage it takes to serve, the cost that sometimes comes with that service, and the duty we have to support one another through the darkest moments.”

IAFC official statement

IAFF President Edward Kelly

IAFC President Chief Josh Waldo

Coeur d’Alene Firefighters IAFF Local 710

Spokane Valley Fire

Politicians react

Senator Jim Risch, who represents Idaho, called the shooting a “villainous attack”:

Senator Mike Crapo, who represents Idaho, sent his prayers:

Idaho Governor Brad Little called the attack a “heinous direct assault on our brave firefighters”:

Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Kristi Noem said “justice will be served”:

Attorney General Pam Bondi thanked FBI agents assisting local authorities: