Suspected shooter in Idaho firefighter ambush identified

Authorities Name Suspect in Idaho Firefighter Ambush Incident

Boise, Idaho (June 30, 2025) — Law enforcement officials have identified the suspected gunman in last week's ambush targeting Idaho firefighters battling a wildfire near Cascade. The Valley County Sheriff's Office, in coordination with state and federal agencies, named 34-year-old Jacob L. Miller of McCall, Idaho, as the primary suspect in the shooting that left one firefighter wounded and prompted a statewide manhunt.

Background of the Incident

The ambush occurred on June 26, 2025, as crews were responding to the rapidly spreading Bear Creek Fire in a remote area of central Idaho. According to investigators, firefighters came under gunfire shortly after arriving at a staging area along Forest Service Road 489. One crew member sustained non-life-threatening injuries, and the assailant fled into the surrounding forest.

Suspect's Identification and Search

Authorities say Miller was identified based on witness accounts, surveillance footage from trail cameras, and forensic evidence collected at the scene. He is believed to have acted alone, though investigators continue to search for potential accomplices. The motive for the attack remains under investigation, with officials stating there is no known connection between Miller and the fire crews.

Key Developments:

• Jacob L. Miller is wanted on charges of attempted murder, aggravated assault, and use of a firearm during the commission of a felony.
• The wounded firefighter is recovering at St. Luke's Boise Medical Center and is expected to make a full recovery.
• Federal and state law enforcement agencies are conducting extensive search operations in the Payette National Forest area.

Community Response and Ongoing Investigation

The incident has heightened concerns about the safety of emergency responders working in wildfire zones amid a record-breaking fire season in Idaho. The U.S. Forest Service and local authorities have increased security measures for firefighting personnel and urged residents in the Cascade and McCall areas to remain vigilant.

Anyone with information about Miller's whereabouts is urged to contact the Valley County Sheriff's Office or the Idaho State Police tip line. Authorities have warned the public not to approach the suspect, describing him as armed and dangerous.

The investigation remains active, with updates expected as search efforts continue and law enforcement officials pursue leads in the case.