Aaron Farinacci, 37, of Spokane, Washington, has been arrested and charged with first-degree arson for allegedly starting the Old Trails fire, one of three major wildfires burning in Spokane County. The fire has destroyed homes and forced thousands to evacuate. Farinacci denies setting the fire.
Previous Questioning
Court documents reveal that Farinacci was previously questioned in connection with two fire investigations last year. In July 2025, several "bus-sized" fires occurred near the Spokane River and his apartment. The following month, police searching for a wildfire suspect at a state park encountered Farinacci sitting on a bench, seemingly out of breath. He was photographed wearing a green T-shirt similar to one he wore on Saturday. He was not charged in those cases.
Fire Conditions and Response
The Old Trails fire is one of more than a dozen large blazes burning in Washington. Officials have described an "extraordinary" fire season in the Pacific Northwest due to extreme heat, drought, and limited resources. Cooler weather and higher humidity have recently aided firefighters, allowing them to establish containment lines around all three fires near Spokane. Crews are focusing on strengthening containment and preparing for critical fire weather expected later this week and over the weekend.
Arrest and Evidence
Spokane County Sheriff John Nowels said Farinacci was identified by witnesses who saw him kneeling in the brush near the fire's origin. One witness, Paul Child, told the Associated Press, "He was bent over in the brush, acting nervous. You get the feeling this guy’s up to something." Authorities say Farinacci had waterproof matches, cigarettes, and a butane lighter in his possession. Investigators ruled out other causes before arresting him on Monday.
Criminal History
Farinacci previously served about a decade in prison for manslaughter and aggravated assault in the 2010 killing of his father. At age 21, he shot and killed his father after an argument in Arizona. He was released from probation in early 2024. A probation officer noted he had a stable residence with his girlfriend and her family but had not completed a mental health evaluation or domestic violence treatment. Farinacci is held on $1 million bail.
