Spokane Arson Suspect Arraigned; Old Trails Fire Destroys 700+ Buildings

Aaron Farinacci, 37, was arrested Monday and charged with first-degree arson for allegedly starting the Old Trails Fire near Spokane, Washington. The fire, which began August 1 at noon near Airway Heights, has destroyed over 700 structures and forced approximately 65,000 people to evacuate. Farinacci, a convicted felon, was held on a $1 million bond after his Tuesday court appearance. The blaze remains 0% contained as of August 4.

How the suspect was identified

A witness reported seeing a nervous-looking man crouched near grass around noon on Saturday, August 1, near North Old Trails Road and West Euclid Road. The witness later saw smoke from that same area and called Airway Heights Police. Officers found Farinacci about 1.5 miles from where the fire started, questioned him, and released him due to insufficient evidence at the time.

Major crimes detectives later developed probable cause to arrest him. When arrested at his home on Monday, Farinacci was carrying a pack of cigarettes, a butane lighter, and a used box of waterproof matches. Sheriff’s investigators worked with DNR fire officials to build the case.

Criminal history and prior fire links

Farinacci pleaded guilty in 2012 to manslaughter in Arizona for fatally shooting his father in 2010 following an argument over washing dishes. He served a 12-year prison sentence and was released in 2020. Court records show he has no prior arson convictions. However, authorities say he was previously linked to two other fire investigations in Washington last year, though no charges resulted.

Scale of the Old Trails Fire

The Old Trails Fire is the largest of three blazes burning in Spokane County, collectively called the Spokane Complex Fire. All three ignited on Saturday afternoon. As of Tuesday, the three fires had burned over 10,000 acres combined with 0% containment. The Old Trails Fire alone has destroyed 700 to 1,100 structures and forced evacuation of approximately 65,000 residents from the Spokane area, a city of 230,000 people.

Court proceedings and next steps

Farinacci appeared in court virtually from jail on Tuesday, August 4. His bond was set at $1 million and he remains in custody. His next court date is scheduled for Thursday for arraignment. Prosecutors argued he poses a danger to the community. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not ruled out additional charges. Farinacci has denied starting the fire, telling officers he used the matches to light cigarettes.

Final Thoughts

Farinacci’s arrest marks a rapid development in one of Washington’s worst fire seasons in 30 years. With the Old Trails Fire still 0% contained and destroying hundreds of homes, his Thursday arraignment will be closely watched as prosecutors build their first-degree arson case.

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