Two dead as gunmen ambush firefighters in Idaho

Two people were killed on Sunday after an ambush targeting firefighters battling a wildfire in Kootenai County, located in the northwestern US state of Idaho.

It was not immediately clear if there was one gunman or more, Sheriff Bob Norris told a press conference, adding that civilians may have been struck in the incident unfolding in a nature area in Coeur d'Alene.

"We are prepared to neutralize this suspect who is currently actively shooting at public safety personnel," Norris said.

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has been briefed on the Idaho shooting, ABC News reported.

Firefighters received the first call of a fire around 1:21 p.m. local time, Norris said, and about 40 minutes later, reports emerged that they were being shot at.

"This is a heinous direct assault on our brave firefighters," Idaho Governor Brad Little said on X. "I ask all Idahoans to pray for them and their families as we wait to learn more."

Little did not give further details on any casualties or how the incident unfolded.

"As this situation is still developing, please stay clear from the area to allow law enforcement and firefighters to do their jobs," Little added.