WASHINGTON, D.C. – Idaho’s U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch led a moment of silence Monday on the floor of the U.S. Senate to honor two firefighters killed in an ambush attack in Coeur d’Alene. The observance occurred during the Senate’s ongoing vote-a-rama on the reconciliation bill.

The ambush occurred Sunday as firefighters from Coeur d’Alene and Kootenai County responded to a fire on Canfield Mountain. Upon arrival, they were met with gunfire. Two firefighters were killed, and a third remains hospitalized after undergoing surgery for gunshot wounds.

Senator Crapo acknowledged the gravity of the attack while addressing the chamber. “While business continues here, life for the north Idaho community of Coeur d’Alene remains at a very painful standstill as we mourn the horrific loss of two firefighters,” he said. “I ask my colleagues to join me sending your prayers for that firefighter’s full recovery, the deceased victims, their families and the entire north Idaho community grieving this heinous act.”

Senator Risch echoed the sentiment, calling the attack “despicable.” He stated, “This evil attack on the people who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving our communities is despicable and it’s NOT Idaho.”

Senators Maria Cantwell and Patty Murray of Washington also offered their condolences and praised the response efforts of Washington state’s first responders.

Both Idaho senators led their colleagues in a moment of silence and prayer from the Senate floor in honor of the victims and their families.