Battalion Chief John Morrison Jr - Coeur d'Alene Fire Department - Idaho

On June 29, 2025, fire crews were dispatched to a fire on Canfield Mountain at approximately 1:21 p.m.  (PDT).  Almost immediately upon arrival, firefighters came under gunfire forcing them to take cover.

More than 300 federal, state, and local law enforcement officers, including the FBI and SWAT, responded to the scene.  Police snipers also searched the area via helicopters.  

During the barrage of gunfire, two firefighters were killed and another was injured.  One of the firefighters that was killed was Battalion Chief John Morrison Jr. who was 52 years old.  

The suspect was later identified as a 20 year old Idaho transplant with a history of behavioral issues.  A handwritten note in his vehicle stated, "Tomorrow, I shall go into battle....I bid thee farewell".  It was determined that the suspect had intentionally set the fire to lure first responders to the area.  Authorities described the incident as a "total ambush".  The suspect had also tried to join the fire department and had become angry when he was told that he needed to go through training and testing. He had also tried to join the Army twice with no success.  

Battalion Chief John Morrison Jr. served with the Coeur d'Alene Fire Department for over 28 years and had served held various ranks including firefighter, paramedic, engineer, and captain.  Morrison is survived by his wife and son.

As part of our "Plaques for Heroes" campaign, engraved slate memorial plaques were sent to the Coeur d'Alene Fire Department and to Morrison's family at no cost to honor his service and his sacrifice to the community of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Our condolences to his family, his department and the community he served.