CANFIELD MOUNTAIN, IDAHO – In a tragic and swiftly evolving situation, law enforcement officials have confirmed this evening that a deceased male was discovered on Canfield Mountain, not far from the site of a deadly ambush that unfolded earlier in the day. The discovery was made by members of a specialized SWAT unit, deployed as part of the urgent and intensive manhunt that began following the shocking attack.
Authorities stated that a firearm was located in close proximity to the body. At this time, the individual is believed to be the suspect — or potentially one of multiple suspects — involved in the brazen and fatal shooting that claimed the lives of both firefighters and police officers earlier today. Law enforcement has emphasized that the deceased male is not an additional victim, dispelling initial concerns that another responder or civilian had been caught in the violence.
The ambush, which occurred earlier this afternoon, has shaken the Canfield Mountain community and surrounding areas to the core. First responders had been dispatched to the mountain following reports of a brush fire and potential hazardous activity, only to be met with unexpected gunfire in what authorities have described as a deliberate and calculated attack. Multiple emergency personnel were shot, with several fatalities confirmed — including at least one firefighter and one law enforcement officer.
As of this evening, investigators remain uncertain whether the deceased individual acted alone. The possibility of additional suspects has not been ruled out, and officials caution that the investigation remains active and ongoing. “We are treating this as a dynamic and potentially multi-suspect situation,” said a representative from the sheriff’s office. “Until we have definitive forensic results and further intelligence, we urge the public to remain vigilant.”
The identity of the deceased individual has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin and official confirmation. Officials have indicated that more detailed information will be made available during a scheduled press briefing at 9:30 PM, where representatives from local law enforcement, fire services, and state officials are expected to address the public and media.
Residents in the Canfield Mountain area are being asked to stay away from the crime scene, which remains heavily secured. Those living in nearby neighborhoods should expect an increased law enforcement presence throughout the night as the investigation continues and as authorities work to determine whether any accomplices remain at large.
In the wake of this tragedy, local leaders and citizens alike are expressing deep sorrow and outrage. Messages of grief, solidarity, and support have begun pouring in for the fallen first responders, whose lives were cut short while bravely serving their community. Crisis counselors have been made available to affected emergency personnel and family members, and a candlelight vigil is reportedly being planned for tomorrow evening.
As the community awaits further answers, tonight’s discovery on Canfield Mountain represents a significant — though somber — development in a heartbreaking day that has left a lasting scar on North Idaho.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
