Authorities arrested Aaron Farinacci, 37, of Spokane, Washington, on Monday, August 4th, 2026, charging him with first-degree arson for allegedly starting the Old Trails Fire. This fire is the largest among three wildfires currently burning in the Spokane area, which have collectively consumed over 10,000 acres and forced more than 60,000 residents to evacuate their homes.

Farinacci was identified by witnesses who saw him kneeling near grass close to where the fire began and was found in possession of waterproof matches and a butane lighter. Spokane County Sheriff John Nowels reported that citizen tips and information from local police and sheriff’s deputies were instrumental in his apprehension.

Farinacci is being held on a $1 million bond and is expected to make his first court appearance on Tuesday, August 5th, 2026. Authorities described him as a convicted felon from Arizona, with a prior manslaughter conviction related to the shooting of his father in 2010, according to the Phoenix New Times.

The Old Trails Fire, along with the Autumn Lane and Fairview fires, has destroyed hundreds of buildings. Residents like Miriam and Daniel Sim and Angela and Wayde Deatherage have lost their homes, with Miriam Sim stating, “There’s nothing to save.”

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson called the situation a "nightmare" and "likely the worst natural disaster in Spokane history." The city's mayor, Lisa Brown, warned that there remains "the potential for lives to be lost" and it is too early to determine when evacuees might return.

Authorities continue to try to contact 14 people who remain unaccounted for but are not officially considered missing. Investigations into the other two fires are ongoing, with no cause yet determined.

Sources