A 37-year-old Spokane, Washington, man has been arrested on suspicion of intentionally starting the largest of three major wildfires that have devastated the Spokane region, forcing thousands of residents to flee their homes and destroying hundreds of buildings.
Authorities identified the suspect as Aaron Farinacci, who was taken into custody Monday afternoon without incident. According to Spokane County Sheriff John Nowels, Farinacci was arrested with assistance from a SWAT team after a judge approved a warrant alleging first-degree arson in connection with the Old Trails Fire, the most destructive of the three fires burning in the area.
Speaking at an evening news conference, Sheriff Nowels said investigators gathered enough evidence to seek the arrest warrant, though he did not immediately disclose what led authorities to identify Farinacci as the suspect.
Farinacci, who has a prior manslaughter conviction, is being held in the Spokane County Jail on $1 million bond. As of Monday night, it was unclear whether formal criminal charges had been filed or whether he had retained legal representation. The Spokane County Public Defender’s Office did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The Old Trails Fire has become the largest and most destructive of three significant wildfires that have swept across the Spokane region in recent days. The blazes have prompted widespread evacuation orders, displaced thousands of residents, and damaged or destroyed hundreds of homes, businesses, and other structures. Firefighters continue working to contain the fires as challenging weather conditions and dry vegetation fuel their spread.
The investigation into the cause of the Old Trails Fire remains ongoing, and officials have not ruled out additional charges as investigators continue collecting evidence. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the fire to contact law enforcement.
If convicted of first-degree arson, Farinacci could face significant prison time under Washington state law. Officials emphasized that the arrest marks an important step in the investigation but noted that the allegations remain unproven until they are tested in court.
Emergency crews continue to assess the full extent of the wildfire damage while residents begin the difficult process of recovery. State and local agencies are coordinating assistance for displaced families as firefighters work to bring the remaining fires under control.
