‘We’re all feeling this one’: Utah firefighters react to Idaho attack
Jun 30, 2025, 10:30 AM | Updated: 2:35 pm
SALT LAKE CITY — A fatal attack on several Idaho firefighters has left those in the firefighting community in shock.
Two firefighters were killed and another was injured in an ambush on Sunday that started with what authorities said was an intentionally set wildfire in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.
Fire departments in Utah sent out their thoughts and prayers in the hours following the attack.
“We are holding the victims, their families and all those affected in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time,” the Kaysville Fire Department wrote.
The Tooele Fire Department shared a similar message.
North Tooele Fire District spokesperson and The Arrow host Jon Smith told Utah’s Morning News that the firefighters in the mountain region of the western U.S. are like one big family.
“We help Idaho out, they help us out,” Smith said. “We all help other states out here in the West. So, a lot of these guys we have worked with in various deployments and in various capacities over the years. So, we’re all feeling this one.”
“When we hear about this in a neighboring state, you know, we pay attention and it’s a very scary situation,” he added.
Smith said many firefighters have access to ballistic vests and helmets because they respond to a variety of emergencies, but wildland fires are different.
“On a wildland fire, where we are out in the open, we are exposed for miles in every direction, this isn’t something that we deal with.”
‘No excuse’ for Idaho firefighter killings
State Fire Marshal Ted Black said he’s devastated by what happened in Coeur d’Alene.
“There is no excuse for this. Mental health, tragedy, is not an excuse for you to take somebody’s life when they are there to provide service to the public. And the message needs to be: there is no excuse for this.”
Black said he’s already talking with his teams about safety on the job, because even when they’re racing toward danger, this wasn’t the kind they expected.
“I have reminded my staff this morning the importance of situational awareness. To be aware of the bigger surroundings to keep yourself safe. I would imagine a similar conversation has been had all over the country.”
Black said Utah crews are heartbroken, but ready to help if Idaho needs backup.
Bryanna Willis contributed to this report.
