Spokane County Man Charged with First-Degree Arson After Wildfire Investigation
A 37-year-old man was arrested and charged with first-degree arson in connection with the Old Trails fire that helped spark evacuations of more than 65,000 residents in Spokane County.
Spokane County sheriff's officials said Aaron F. Farinacci, 37, was taken into custody on Monday on a charge of first-degree arson after investigators linked him to the Old Trails fire that ignited on Saturday. The blaze, which investigators say was started with a match or butane lighter, was one of three fires that forced widespread evacuations across the Spokane area.
According to Sheriff John Nowels, a resident reported seeing a man kneeling near the ignition site on West Euclid Road and North Old Trails Road. The witness described the individual as appearing nervous before smoke was observed. Police later located Farinacci about a mile and a half from the reported spot, where he was found carrying waterproof matches and a butane lighter.
Deputies initially questioned Farinacci, confirmed his identity with the reporting resident, and released him to address the expanding fire. Body-camera footage later helped identify him for the Monday arrest. Farinacci is being held on a $1 million bail, and his legal representation has not been confirmed.
The fires have destroyed more than 700 structures, with officials warning that the count could rise. No deaths have been reported, though authorities continue to contact individuals who sought evacuation assistance. Prosecuting Attorney Preston McCollam said the investigation remains ongoing and additional charges may be considered. He thanked community members for reporting the incident.