The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is saddened by the tragic events of Sunday, June 29, when two firefighters were shot and killed and a third critically injured while responding to a brush fire on Canfield Mountain in Coeur d’Alene. Battalion Chiefs John Morrison of Coeur d’Alene Fire Department and Frank Harwood of Kootenai County Fire and Rescue lost their lives in the line of duty. Engineer David Tysdal was seriously wounded in the shooting.

Our hearts are with the families, friends, colleagues, and northern Idaho communities grieving this immense loss. We also hold Engineer Tysdal in our thoughts as he recovers.

Harwood had a longstanding relationship with IOEM, working closely with our HazMat Duty Officers and Regional Response Team 1. His commitment and expertise made a lasting impact on all who had the privilege to work with him.

“Battalion Chief Harwood was an integral part of communication between IOEM HazMat Duty Officers and RRT1,” said IOEM HazMat Program Manager Sarah Cerda. “Frank was often the one who answered the calls for RRT1 and joined coordination calls to support local responders across Region 1. His willingness to help made him a trusted and valued partner. Frank’s knowledge, expertise, and genuine care for those he served will be deeply missed.”

Despite the unthinkable tragedy and unknown threats, first responders from across Kootenai County and North Idaho acted swiftly and professionally during the Sunday incident. Kootenai County Emergency Management, Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office, Kootenai County Fire and Rescue, the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department, Idaho State Police, Coeur d’Alene Police Department, Post Falls Police Department, the U.S. Forest Service, and the Idaho Bureau of Land Management all played key roles in rescuing the injured and trapped firefighters and preventing the suspect from fleeing the area. These agencies, along with other supporting partners, worked with exceptional coordination to protect public safety, confront the threat, and combat the fire.

Their teamwork and strength reflect the deep dedication behind Idaho’s emergency response community.

Several donation opportunities are available to help support the families of Chief Morrison, Chief Harwood, and Engineer Tysdal:

Support the Morrison Family
Donate via Stripe

Support the Tysdal Family
Donate via Stripe

Support the Harwood Family
Donate via Stripe

Support All Three Families via the Red & Blue Foundation
redbluefoundation.org

Memorial T-Shirt: All proceeds go to the Harwood and Morrison families
Relentless Defender Apparel – Remember Harwood & Morrison

Donate at First Interstate Bank
Visit any branch and ask to contribute to the fund for the fallen firefighters.

JW Foundation – Supporting Families of Fallen Emergency Responders
jwmfidaho.com/donate-2