A Spokane, Washington man faces charges of starting multiple wildfires, including the Old Trails fire, which destroyed over 850 buildings. Police say Aaron Farinacci, 37, planned the arson weeks in advance and studied ideal weather conditions.
Authorities linked Farinacci to the crime after his arrest. During questioning, he spoke of fire as a force of transformation and beauty, according to Spokane County Detective Michael Drapeau. The Old Trails fire is one of three significant blazes in Spokane, forcing tens of thousands to evacuate with many unable to return home. Although no fatalities or severe injuries have been reported, the damage remains extensive.
Farinacci also faces charges for four smaller fires set in 2025 and recently. His arraignment on five first-degree arson charges awaits a competency evaluation requested by his attorney. Spokane Superior Court Judge Jeremy Schmidt agreed to consider this and set a bond of $2 million, deeming Farinacci a community and flight risk, with potential for violence.
Farinacci initially denied starting the fire when approached by police but later admitted responsibility during an interview. He confessed to setting other fires last year and last month, leading to additional charges. He allegedly carried cigarette or marijuana paraphernalia to justify a lighter and matches in his possession. Drapeau noted that Farinacci exploited the ease of committing arson.
The suspect reportedly studied the work of a known arsonist and acquired materials for a timed ignition device, using notebook paper, matches, and rubber bands. On August 1, he initiated the fire on a day forecasted for strong winds.
Paul Child played a pivotal role in apprehending Farinacci. Observing his suspicious behavior along railway tracks, Child alerted authorities. Farinacci also admitted to igniting 25 fires near his residence, most near the Spokane River or Centennial Trail. Among these is the Aubrey White fire, which resulted in evacuations and road closures.
Additional arson charges include the Meenach fire on July 8, 2025, the Fort George fire on August 11, 2025, and the Indian Bluff fire on July 24, 2026. Farinacci’s past includes a prison term for manslaughter in Arizona, following the shooting of his father in 2010. He relocated to Spokane’s Copper River Apartments in October 2022, reportedly struggling with personal issues.
Spokane County Sheriff John Nowels announced that residents could face weeks of displacement before safe reentry to affected areas. The investigation into these arsons continues.