Police chief involved in fatal shooting

CHALLIS — Brian Zimmerman, Bonners Ferry Police chief, allegedly shot a man after a verbal altercation near Tin Cup Campground in Custer County on Aug. 1.

According to a Custer County Sheriff’s Office press release, around 10:30 p.m., Custer County Sheriff’s deputies were called to the area for a reported shooting after a confrontation occurred.

Russell V. Liddell, 73 years old, of Boise, confronted a group of 16 to 18 people camping near the Tin Cup campground.

A verbal altercation between Liddell and members of the group — including members of Zimmerman’s family — resulted in shots fired.

According to a press release by Bonners Ferry Police Department, Zimmerman returned fire after being fired upon by an armed individual who confronted Zimmerman and the group with which he was traveling.”

In the press release, it states that Zimmerman, who was off duty, fired rounds that struck Liddell resulting in his death.

Members of the group began lifesaving measures and quickly called emergency operators to arrive at the scene; no other injuries occurred during the altercation.

Custer County law enforcement requested resources from the Eastern Idaho Critical Task Force to assist with the investigation.

Detectives with Bonneville, Bingham, Fremont County, Idaho Falls Police and Idaho State Police have begun an investigation, collecting information from individuals involved.

Autopsy reports are being conducted and are pending. The investigation is ongoing and will not be released until completed.

In an obituary for Liddell, he is recognized for his service as a second lieutenant of the U.S. Air Force.

Zimmerman previously worked as a trooper for the Idaho State Police; this is why Bonneville County took the lead on the case, according to Custer County Prosecutor, Justin Oleson.

In a press release from the city of Bonners Ferry, it acknowledges the Eastern Idaho Critical Incident Task Force investigation.

Zimmerman informed the city administration of the incident after it occurred. City officials declined to comment on the open investigation.

“The city does not feel that administrative leave or other personnel action by the city of Bonners Ferry is necessary at this time.”

The press release states Zimmerman’s actions are in no way related to his employment and will not comment on the status of the investigations.

Bonneville Sheriff’s Office public information officer, Sgt. Bryan Lovell, said the investigation is ongoing and, at the moment, can not confirm if Zimmerman was fired upon by Liddell.