COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho — Firefighting Community Mourns the Loss of Two Battalion Chiefs Killed in Tragic Ambush; Third Critically Injured
A heartbreaking tragedy has struck the firefighting community in northern Idaho after two respected battalion chiefs were killed in a deliberate and violent ambush. At a news conference held Monday, officials confirmed the victims as Battalion Chief Frank Harwood, 42, of Northern Lakes Fire, and Battalion Chief John Morrison, 52, of the Coeur d’Alene Fire Department. A third firefighter, Dave Tysdal, 47, was critically injured and remains hospitalized following two surgeries.
The attack, described by officials as an “unprovoked and targeted ambush,” has sent shockwaves through the first responder community and left a region in mourning over the loss of two seasoned leaders who had dedicated their lives to public safety.
A Sudden and Senseless Loss
Battalion Chief John Morrison had served with Coeur d’Alene Fire since 1996 and was widely respected not only within the department but across the broader emergency services community. Known for his quiet leadership, operational expertise, and deep commitment to mentoring younger firefighters, Morrison embodied the ethos of service above self. He was 52 years old.
Chief Frank Harwood, age 42, had spent the last 17 years serving the Northern Lakes Fire Protection District. Described by his peers as “a natural leader with an unwavering sense of duty,” Harwood was instrumental in modernizing operations within his department and took great pride in his community outreach efforts.
“These men were dedicated firefighters,” said a visibly emotional fire official at the Monday press briefing. “They weren’t just colleagues — they were family. Their loss is a deep wound to all of us.”
The Ambush
While details remain limited due to the ongoing investigation, authorities confirmed that the firefighters were responding to a reported structure fire when they came under gunfire. Initial reports indicate that the fire may have been set intentionally to lure first responders to the scene, where the shooter opened fire without warning.
Both Morrison and Harwood were fatally struck during the attack. Firefighter Dave Tysdal, 47, was also shot and critically wounded. As of Monday afternoon, officials said he had undergone two emergency surgeries and remains in intensive care.
No motive has yet been released, and officials have not confirmed whether a suspect has been taken into custody. Law enforcement agencies, including state and federal authorities, are conducting a joint investigation into what is now being considered a targeted attack on emergency personnel.
Mourning Across Departments and Beyond
The loss of these two respected battalion chiefs has reverberated across the state of Idaho and beyond, with condolences pouring in from fire departments and emergency services agencies throughout the Pacific Northwest.
Flags have been lowered to half-staff at fire stations across Kootenai County, and memorial bunting has been placed at both the Coeur d’Alene and Northern Lakes stations. Crews, though grieving, continue to serve — a tribute to the work ethic and resilience instilled by both Morrison and Harwood.
“These men represented the very best of us,” said a fellow firefighter. “They ran toward danger so others could be safe. They led by example and with heart.”
Tributes and Legacy
Both Harwood and Morrison leave behind grieving families, fellow firefighters, and entire communities who have long admired their service.
John Morrison is survived by his wife and two adult children. He was known for his involvement in local youth sports, his mentorship of young firefighters, and his infectious laugh that filled every firehouse he entered.
Frank Harwood leaves behind a wife and three young children. He was deeply involved in fire education and community risk reduction, often spending time in local schools teaching fire safety and prevention to children.
Plans for public memorials are already underway, and both departments have requested privacy for the families as they begin to navigate this unimaginable loss.
A fundraising campaign to support the families of all three firefighters — including the ongoing medical needs of Dave Tysdal — has been launched by the Idaho Fallen Firefighters Foundation.
Moving Forward Through Grief
Though the grief is raw and heavy, officials say the fallen heroes will be honored in the way they would have wanted: through continued service, unity, and compassion.
“We will carry them with us in every shift, in every call, and in every act of bravery,” said the Coeur d’Alene Fire Chief. “They may be gone, but their legacy will never fade.”
As northern Idaho begins the difficult process of mourning and healing, the memory of John Morrison and Frank Harwood will forever remain etched in the hearts of those who knew them, worked alongside them, and were kept safe because of them.
Rest in peace, Chiefs Morrison and Harwood. Your watch is over, but your courage lives on.