UPDATE: The suspect has been neutralized, according to Kootenai County Sheriff Bob Norris.

WALLACE, Idaho — Authorities are responding to an active shooter incident at the Shoshone County Sheriff’s Office, where at least two people have reportedly been shot, and the suspect is believed to remain inside the building, according to preliminary information from law enforcement and local media.

Multiple agencies were dispatched after reports of gunfire at the sheriff’s office, which is located across from and directly in front of the Shoshone County Courthouse in downtown Wallace.

The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that law enforcement personnel are actively responding to the incident.

Witnesses reported hearing shots fired inside the lobby, with some indicating that at least seven gunshots were heard earlier in the event. These details have not yet been officially confirmed.

Early, unverified reports suggested the possibility of a hostage situation. Authorities have not confirmed whether any hostages are involved.

There are also preliminary reports that the suspect may be barricaded inside the sheriff’s office, possibly in an area described by witnesses as the attorney visiting room. Officials have not confirmed the suspect’s status or exact location.

A large law enforcement presence has been established around the sheriff’s office, courthouse, and surrounding blocks as officers work to secure the area and manage the ongoing threat. Authorities are urging the public to avoid downtown Wallace, the county seat of Shoshone County, until further notice.

Nearby businesses have taken emergency precautions.

The owner of an Ace Hardware store located across the street from the sheriff’s office confirmed that gunfire struck their building. Employees were immediately placed on lockdown in the store’s basement for safety.

Confusion initially arose due to the close proximity of the sheriff’s office and the courthouse. The Mineral County Sheriff’s Office in neighboring Montana posted that online reports of an active shooter at the Shoshone County Courthouse were accurate. Authorities later corrected the statement, clarifying that the incident was occurring at the Shoshone County Sheriff’s Office, which is situated directly in front of the courthouse.

“We are sending reinforcement to help our neighbor,” the Mineral County Sheriff’s Office said in an updated statement. “Please pray for all law enforcement.”

The situation remains active and fluid, with multiple agencies assisting.

Authorities and media outlets say additional information will be released as it becomes available and stress the importance of relying on official updates as the response continues.