Authorities have arrested a man in connection with the Old Trails Fire that has wreaked havoc near Spokane, Washington. Aaron F. Farinacci, 37, faces a first-degree arson charge related to the blaze. This fire is one of multiple wildfires that have swept through the area, destroying hundreds of structures and forcing widespread evacuations.

Farinacci was apprehended after detectives from the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with the Washington Department of Natural Resources, established probable cause for his arrest. Local police and sheriff’s deputies, as well as community tips, provided crucial information that led to this development.

While Farinacci is a convicted felon from Arizona, authorities have found no previous records of fire-related crimes in his past. Investigators have stated that he is not linked to the other significant fires in the region, known as the Autumn Lane and Fairview fires.

“There may be other crimes Mr. Farinacci is connected to that we will investigate,” said Spokane County Sheriff John Nowels. He also noted that the first-degree arson charge is based on initial evidence, and the case could evolve as more information is gathered.

Detectives obtained warrants to arrest Farinacci and search his home on West Elliott Drive. Upon executing the warrants, deputies arrested Farinacci, recovering items such as a butane lighter and waterproof matches in his possession.

The Old Trails Fire, first reported near North Old Trails Road and West Euclid Road, emerged as the largest and most destructive of the three fires around Spokane. As of Monday, it remained uncontained. These fires have collectively devastated over 700 structures and led to evacuation orders for about 67,000 people.

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson declared a statewide wildfire emergency on Saturday. This emergency declaration responded to the conditions of drought, extreme temperatures, and strong winds. It also included a ban on most outdoor and agricultural burning, lasting until September 30.