Aaron Farinacci Charged With Arson for Spokane’s Old Trails Fire

Washington state’s second-largest city, Spokane, faced a wildfire crisis as authorities arrested Aaron Farinacci, 37, on charges of first-degree arson for allegedly igniting the Old Trails Fire, one of three blazes that have destroyed over 700 structures and forced 67,000 residents to evacuate. The fires, fueled by drought and high winds, have scorched 16 square miles, with the Old Trails Fire alone jumping the Spokane River and reducing neighborhoods to ash.

Arson Suspect’s Criminal History and Prior Fire Links

Farinacci, a Spokane resident with a troubled past, has a history of fire-related scrutiny. Court records reveal he was questioned in two separate fire investigations in 2025 but not charged. In July 2025, Spokane police responded to “bus-sized” fires near his apartment, and in August 2025, he was spotted at a state park wildfire, according to a probable cause statement. His criminal record includes a 2010 manslaughter conviction after he shot his father in Arizona, a crime for which he served about a decade in prison before being released in 2020.

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Aaron Farinacci Arrested for First-Degree Arson in Old Trails Fire

The Old Trails Fire, which began on Saturday, was linked to Farinacci after a tip from a citizen who saw him near railroad tracks. Sheriff John Nowels stated that Farinacci was found with matches, a lighter, and a pack of cigarettes, though he denied starting the fire. Authorities later ruled out other causes, such as train activity or electrical infrastructure, and determined the blaze began where Farinacci was seen. His initial court appearance was via video from jail, with a bond set at $1 million.

Aaron F. Farinacci Arrested for Arson in Connection With Old Trails Fire

Residents described the devastation, with some losing everything. Miriam Sim, 76, said, There’s nothing to save, as she surveyed the ruins of her home.

Community Response and Legal Proceedings

Sheriff Nowels credited community vigilance, stating, As it happens in so many critical cases, it was citizens who were paying attention to their surroundings, being aware and willing to step up and say something that led to the relatively quick apprehension of Mr. Farinacci. However, questions remain about the broader causes of the fires, with officials emphasizing the role of climate-driven drought and extreme weather.

Ongoing Firefighting Efforts and Climate Context

Firefighters face a daunting task as the region braces for a return of hot, dry conditions by midweek. The Spokane blazes are among the top priorities in the U.S., with resources stretched thin across the Pacific Northwest.

Washington Wildfires Destroy 600 Homes Near Spokane As Emergency Declared

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson called the situation a “nightmare,” noting that the fires have “wiped out” entire neighborhoods. While no fatalities have been reported, the emotional toll is profound. At our age, do we want to rebuild? asked Daniel Sim, 76, surveying the ruins of his home.

As the investigation into the fires continues, authorities are urging the public to avoid drones near active burn zones, which could hinder aerial firefighting efforts. The full extent of the damage may not be known for weeks, but one thing is clear: the fires have left an indelible mark on Spokane, a city now grappling with the aftermath of what Governor Bob Ferguson called likely the worst natural disaster in Spokane history.