**BREAKING: Firefighters Ambushed by Shooter, 2 Deaths Confirmed**

In a shocking turn of events, two firefighters have been confirmed dead following an ambush by an active shooter during a wildfire response on Canfield Mountain. The incident unfolded around 1:21 p.m. today when first responders were dispatched to a fire on the east side of the mountain. By approximately 2:00 p.m., reports surfaced that firefighters were under fire, prompting an urgent response from multiple local and federal agencies.

Sheriff Robert Norris confirmed during a press briefing that the situation remains fluid and dangerous, with ongoing sniper fire directed at public safety personnel. The sheriff has urged civilians to stay clear of the area as authorities work to neutralize the suspect, who remains at large and is believed to be using high-powered rifles. “We are actively taking sniper fire as we speak,” Norris stated, emphasizing the immediate threat to all personnel on the scene.

As rescue operations continue, an unknown number of casualties have been reported, and some civilians may still be trapped or in shock on the mountain. The sheriff confirmed that the firefighting efforts are currently hampered due to the ongoing threat, with resources unable to be deployed until the shooter is contained.

Authorities have established a shelter-in-place order for nearby residents and are coordinating with emergency response teams from multiple jurisdictions. The gravity of the situation is underscored by the fact that this is not just a firefighting operation but a life-threatening standoff.

Sheriff Norris described the unfolding scene as “very, very fresh,” urging the public to remain vigilant. “This is going to be a likely multi-day operation,” he warned, as law enforcement prepares for a prolonged engagement to ensure the safety of all involved. More updates are expected as the situation develops.