Suspected Gunman Killed After Shooting Three at Shoshone County Sheriff’s Office in Wallace, Idaho
Wallace, Idaho – A suspected gunman was shot and killed by law enforcement following a violent shooting at the Shoshone County Sheriff’s Office that left three people with minor injuries, authorities confirmed during press updates on Saturday.
The incident unfolded around 2:30 p.m. local time when the suspect entered the sheriff’s office lobby in Wallace and opened fire, according to Shoshone County Sheriff statements provided in a joint update with Kootenai County officials.[2] Two civilians and one sheriff’s deputy, identified preliminarily as Damien Groves, sustained minor injuries. The civilians were reportedly shot in the legs, while Groves was struck in the ear by a bullet that passed through the dispatch center.[1][2]
Multiple agencies, including Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office and Coeur d’Alene Police, responded swiftly to the active shooter situation. An officer-involved shooting ensued, and the suspect was pronounced dead at the scene by approximately 4:15 p.m.[1][2] Officials described the injuries to all victims as non-life-threatening, with the deputy suffering only a graze wound to his ear.[2]
Timeline of Events
According to preliminary accounts from the press conference, the suspect first fired shots in the street outside the sheriff’s office, striking two civilians.[1] He then entered the building, where additional shots were exchanged. A bullet penetrated the dispatch center, nicking Deputy Groves in the ear. Law enforcement neutralized the threat shortly thereafter through return fire.[2]
“The subject was pronounced dead at about 4:15 p.m.,” Shoshone County representatives stated, emphasizing that investigations into the full sequence are ongoing.[2] Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office and Coeur d’Alene Police are leading the criminal investigation, while the Idaho State Police (ISP) is handling the officer-involved shooting probe.[2]
Community and Official Response
Wallace, a small mining town in Idaho’s Silver Valley with a population of around 1,000, was placed under a temporary shelter-in-place order during the incident. Authorities lifted the order once the scene was secured. No further threats were reported, and the public was urged to avoid the area as investigators processed evidence.[1]
Sheriffs from both Shoshone and Kootenai counties praised the rapid response of first responders. “Everything is preliminary at this time, and it’s probably gonna change as this gets investigated,” one official noted, cautioning against speculation.[2] The motive for the shooting remains unclear, with no details released on the suspect’s identity or background as of the latest updates.
Broader Context of Law Enforcement Violence in Idaho
This incident marks the latest in a series of officer-involved shootings in Idaho this month. Just days earlier, on December 22, an unrelated officer-involved shooting occurred in Idaho Falls, where a man lunged for a knife during an arrest and was fatally shot by police after a struggle.[3] In that case, the Idaho Falls Police Department placed the involved officer on paid administrative leave pending review by the East Idaho Critical Incident Taskforce.
While distinct from the Wallace event, such occurrences highlight ongoing scrutiny of police use-of-force protocols in the state. Investigations in both cases are expected to include body camera footage reviews and prosecutor determinations on justification under Idaho law.[3]
Investigation and Next Steps
Authorities have withheld the suspect’s name and additional details to facilitate next-of-kin notifications and thorough evidence collection. The Shoshone County Sheriff’s Office lobby and surrounding areas, including the street where initial shots were fired, are under forensic examination.[1][2]
Representatives stressed community safety, stating, “This shooter has been neutralized.” Updates are anticipated as multi-agency probes progress, potentially including ballistic analysis, witness interviews, and surveillance review.[1]
“Two civilians were shot in the street. That’s all I know. And then one officer was shot in the ear.” – Eyewitness account from scene.[1]
Impact on Local Community
Residents of Wallace expressed shock over the rare violence at a public safety building. Social media footage from LiveNOW from FOX captured tense moments outside the sheriff’s office, with reporters noting the swift law enforcement containment.[1] Local leaders have not yet issued formal statements, but counseling resources may be mobilized for affected personnel and civilians.
The event underscores vulnerabilities in small-town sheriff facilities, prompting questions about security enhancements. Shoshone County, serving rural northern Idaho, relies on coordinated regional support, as demonstrated by Saturday’s response.[2]
National Attention and Similar Incidents
The shooting drew national media coverage, echoing recent attacks on law enforcement facilities. In 2024, similar incidents in other states involved gunmen targeting police stations, often linked to personal grievances or mental health crises. While no such connections are confirmed here, federal agencies may assist if patterns emerge.
Idaho has seen a uptick in gun-related calls, with state police reporting increased active shooter training for rural departments. This event will likely fuel discussions on arming dispatch staff or bolstering entry protocols.
As investigations unfold, the focus remains on victim recovery and ensuring justice. Shoshone County officials promised transparency, with more details forthcoming.