Key facts
- Aaron F. Farinacci, 37, was arrested and charged with first-degree arson.
- The arrest is linked to the Old Trails Fire, the largest of three blazes near Spokane.
- The fires have destroyed at least 700 buildings and led to the evacuation of 67,000 people.
- A witness tip about a man near the fire's origin led to Farinacci's identification.
- Farinacci was found with matches and a butane lighter.
- The state's congressional delegation requested an expedited emergency declaration from President Donald Trump.
Authorities in Spokane, Washington, have arrested Aaron F. Farinacci, 37, on suspicion of first-degree arson in connection with the Old Trails Fire, one of three devastating blazes that have ravaged the area. The fires have collectively destroyed at least 700 buildings and forced approximately 67,000 residents to evacuate their homes.
Sheriff John Nowels stated that a tip from a community member, who observed a man behaving nervously near the fire's origin, initially led to Farinacci's detention. Subsequent investigation, including review of body-worn camera footage and reports, confirmed the fire started at the location where the witness saw him. Farinacci was found to be in possession of matches and a butane lighter at the time of his detention.
Residents are beginning to return to their neighborhoods, many finding their homes reduced to ash and rubble. The Old Trails Fire, which ignited northwest of downtown Spokane on Saturday, spread rapidly across a parched landscape, crossing the Spokane River and impacting residential areas. The state's congressional delegation has formally requested an expedited emergency declaration from President Donald Trump to aid in the recovery efforts.
By Monday, the three fires had consumed approximately 12.5 square miles. Firefighting efforts were aided by calmer winds and lower temperatures, though hot and dry conditions were expected to return. Over 1,000 firefighters are on the scene, with that number anticipated to double. These fires are part of a larger outbreak across the Western U.S., straining resources. No deaths or major injuries have been reported, though initial reports of missing persons have been largely resolved.