Suspect Arrested Over Spokane Wildfire

A Washington man has been arrested after investigators linked him to one of the fires behind the Spokane Wildfire.

The Spokane County Sheriff’s Office said Aaron Farinacci, 37, has been charged with first-degree arson for allegedly starting the Old Trails Fire. Officials announced the arrest on Monday and said he is being held on a $1 million bond. He is expected to appear in court on Tuesday.

The Old Trails Fire was first reported at about midday on 1 August near the junction of North Old Trails Road and West Euclid Road. According to Sheriff John Nowels, a witness noticed a man in the area who appeared “looking very nervous.” Shortly after returning home, the witness saw smoke rising from the same location and contacted police.

Investigators later found Farinacci about one and a half miles from the fire. Officers questioned him before releasing him later that day. Authorities said he had waterproof matches and a butane lighter in his possession. However, detectives continued gathering evidence before making the arrest.

The Spokane Wildfire includes the Old Trails Fire, Autumn Lane Fire, and Fairview Fire, all of which ignited on Saturday afternoon. Investigators said they are still examining the causes of the other two fires.

Meanwhile, firefighters continue battling the Spokane Wildfire, which had burned more than 10,000 acres by Monday afternoon. Officials also confirmed that the fires remained 0% contained. At least 700 structures, including homes and businesses, have already been destroyed.

Fire incident commander Tom Clemo described the disaster as extraordinary during a briefing with Washington Governor Bob Ferguson. He said, “It’s unprecedented in this community. Frankly, it’s unprecedented in many areas of this country.”

Emergency crews remain on the ground as investigators work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the Spokane Wildfire.

Do you think tougher penalties for deliberate fire-setting could help reduce future wildfire incidents?